Researching the impact of mixed reality experiences

The headspace team provide free mental health support to all young people aged 12-25 who present mild to moderate complexities. 

Their team was recently asked the following question: What if we could radically transform the way we look at mental health? 

UNSW Big Anxiety Research Centre offered headspace satellite centre Bribie Island the possibility to take part in the Edge of The Present (EOTP) project. The research study aims to evaluate the impact of mixed reality experiences on mood, wellbeing and future thinking. The study is open to young people aged 12-25, who can experience multiple landscapes designed to be awe-inspiring and mesmerising. 

There are two surveys that must be completed prior and post the experience to evaluate improvements or changes on young people's moods. Researchers want to understand whether this VR experience can increase positive moods and reduce negative thinking in adolescents and young adults.  

UNSW has organised VR to travel between all Youturn headspace centres and it's now available in the headspace satellite centre Bribie Island. 

So with all that in mind, headspace Bribie Island thought why not ask the local youngest female MP in the state's history to visit their centre for an immersive experience? Ariana Doolan's passion for youth mental health goes beyond her age and her commitment to fight for the local community shimmers through every connection she makes. 

Ariana visited the headspace satellite centre Bribie Island on November 24 to experience EOTP; she let herself be absorbed in each and every ambient, soaking in both peace and mindfulness that these landscapes bring to the user. When comparing her pre and post experiences, she shared that not just young people, but everyone could benefit from travelling wonderful realities like EOTP. 

“We are grateful for Ariana's collaborations and we look forward to sharing our Edge of the Present with more young people on the island,” a spokesperson for headspace said. 

Until the end of January 2026, headspace satellite centre Bribie Island will be able to combine cutting-edge virtual reality with compassionate care, opening new, engaging pathways to support young people’s mental health and wellbeing.