Virtual Reality–Mediated Adolescent Mental Health Support Groups in Ghanaian Informal Settlements: Five-Year Adoption Analysis

Virtual Reality (VR) technology has shown promise in enhancing mental health support services for adolescents in various settings. In Ghanaian informal settlements, VR-mediated adolescent mental health support groups have been implemented to address barriers such as stigma and access. The study employed mixed-methods including quantitative surveys (N=300) and qualitative interviews (n=25). Data were analysed using logistic regression to model adoption rates and thematic analysis for qualitative insights. Adolescent mental health support groups showed a significant increase in adoption from 10% at the start of the study to 40% by the end, with higher uptake among youth aged 15-18 compared to older adolescents (p<0.05). While VR-mediated support groups proved effective, factors such as parental involvement and community engagement were crucial for sustained adoption. Future studies should explore the long-term effects of these groups and examine how varying contextual factors impact their success in diverse settings.