Stress Monitoring: A Key Step Towards Better Health and Well-being
Stress is an inevitable part of our lives, and everyone experiences it at some point. Although it can be manageable in small doses, prolonged exposure to stress can have severe consequences on our physical and mental well-being. Therefore, monitoring stress levels continuously is crucial to identify its early signs and take appropriate steps to manage it effectively.
Thanks to recent technological advancements, wearable devices have enabled us to monitor stress levels using physiological variables. In a recent study published in the journal Sensors, a pilot study was conducted on healthy volunteers to collect physiological signals using wrist-worn watches equipped with photoplethysmogram (PPG) sensors. The study aimed to provide a Stress-Predict dataset that could help develop new wearable solutions for more reliable, valid, and sensitive physiological stress monitoring.
During the study, the participants underwent a series of tasks designed to induce stress levels, such as the Stroop colour test, Trier Social Stress Test, and Hyperventilation Provocation Test. The participants also answered questionnaires that simulated daily stressors. The study found that the interview session was the most significant stress stimulus, causing significant variations in heart rate and respiratory rate in most participants.
The findings from this study provide valuable insights into the physiological response to stress and can help develop personalized stress-monitoring solutions. Wearable devices can use this data to detect stress levels early and accurately and provide necessary interventions to manage stress effectively. By detecting stress levels early and accurately, wearable technology can help individuals take control of their stress levels and improve their overall health and well-being.
The significance of monitoring stress levels cannot be overstated. Chronic stress can lead to several health problems, including cardiovascular diseases, anxiety, depression, and obesity. By using wearable devices to monitor stress levels, individuals can take the necessary steps to manage their stress effectively, such as practicing relaxation techniques, exercise, or meditation. Additionally, individuals can seek professional help if necessary, such as therapy or counselling.
In conclusion, the pilot study on physiological stress monitoring highlights the importance of detecting and managing stress levels continuously. Wearable devices provide a personalized approach to stress management, leading to better overall health and well-being. With wearable technology becoming more accessible and affordable, individuals can take control of their stress levels and live healthier, happier lives.
How Lenica Is Helping
Lenica's data integration platform provides a comprehensive solution for healthcare professionals, allowing them to access a wealth of biometric data from multiple sources. This platform enhances the ability of clinicians and mental health practitioners to gather insights and make informed decisions. It offers a comprehensive view of client information, including data gathered between sessions and near-real-time neurofeedback during therapy.
Reference:
Iqbal, T., Simpkin, A. J., Roshan, D., Glynn, N., Killilea, J., Walsh, J., Molloy, G., Ganly, S., Ryman, H., Coen, E., Elahi, A., Wijns, W., & Shahzad, A. (2022). Stress Monitoring Using Wearable Sensors: A Pilot Study and Stress-Predict Dataset. Sensors, 22(21), 8135. https://doi.org/10.3390/s22218135
