###### Abstract
In line with these results, technology-assisted interventions may have the potential to reduce stress and offer several benefits that may overcome some of the restrictions of face-to-face approaches, such as high protection of anonymity, high accessibility, and reduced implementation costs [29]. As described above, one of the most effective ways to reduce individuals' stress is through techniques that target the modulation of emotional and cognitive reactivity. In this context, VR can be a very effective tool for learning and applying such techniques. VR scenarios usually present naturalistic environments (beaches, oceans, mountains, etc.) that can reduce anxiety and stress [30] and improve mental health in general. In this context, it has been demonstrated that natural scenarios accompanied by appropriate natural sounds can enhance stress-reducing effects [31]. Moreover, there is an emerging body of studies that explores the implementation of self-help VR tools to tackle the negative consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic among individuals. For example, [PERSON] et al. [32] proposed the \"Secret Garden\" protocol, a VR video, which stimulates a natural environment and offers an experience of immersion and presence. The user has the opportunity to perform daily exercises related to personal identity and interpersonal relationships along with a partner so as to decrease the psychological burden and the potential emotional side effects of isolation during the coronavirus. In more detail, they applied the VR treatment protocol to Italian-speaking citizens utilizing a before and after study design [33]. The implementation phase lasted one week, including a two-week follow-up after the intervention. The findings indicated that a VR-assisted program can produce a positive effect on participants' health. COVID Feel Good is also available in 12 different languages to help people to deal with stress associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, another research work examined the effectiveness of VR simulation on stress responses among COVID-19 frontline healthcare professionals [34]. In particular, the Cinematic-VR environment depicted an attractive, nature scene aiming to encourage states of relaxation and peace during professionals' work breaks. The participants could experience subtle details, such as forest sounds with birds singing and wind blowing, throughout the three-minute VR session. The study results showed that this Tranquil Cine-VR simulation did effectively reduce self-reported stress among frontline healthcare workers. However, they highlighted the importance of comparing Cine-VR application with a control group and assessing the measured parameters over time. Additional possible VR approaches to stress management can include the presentation of various theory-based contents inspired by traditional therapy protocols, such as progressive muscle relaxation, autogenic training, and meditation [35; 36]. These concepts may be extensively incorporated into daily life so as to enhance healthy individuals' resources and lower the risk of serious health issues. Before the broad implementation of VR programs, it is, nevertheless, essential that the research community delve into the advances in the field of VR and stress over the last decade. Hence, this literature review intends to contribute to primary prevention by introducing the most recent developments regarding stress management in immersive VR, and motivate scientists to adopt modern tools for health promotion. It seems that the outbreak of the current pandemic has rapidly changed the world in a unique way and highlighted even more the value of e-mental health implementations. Indeed, the only option for the provision of effective mental healthcare during the period of strict social contacts might be technological solutions [37].