Exploring the use of Virtual Reality to enhance rapid decompression from occupational stress during short wellness breaks for content moderators

Virtual reality (VR) has the potential to be a popular stress management tool in workplaces, however its efficacy has yet to be tested on content moderators (CMs). This study used an experimental design where CMs were randomly assigned to either: 1) VR, 2) non-screen activity or 3) control condition for a six-week period. Adherence data regarding a further four-week period was also collected and focus groups were conducted. The results demonstrated no significant differences in trait anxiety or occupational stress between baseline and follow-up for the three conditions. However, consistent with previous studies state-based stress and mood showed improvements after engaging with the activities. Specifically, participants in the VR condition showed reductions in state stress, whilst all conditions showed increases in state mood. The adherence data showed continued use of VR and non-screen activities for some CMs after the six-week experimental period finished and a focus group highlighted the logistical challenge of utilising VR setup within the allotted time. The results suggest VR may be a useful intervention for some types of occupational stress, if used during brief break times, it needs to be embedded within a logistical process that alleviates time pressure.