The effect of heart rate variability biofeedback on stress in a Lebanese student population : an experimental study

Abstract

Objective: This study investigates the effectiveness of a 4-session HRV-BF intervention on stress reduction by levels of perceived stress and state anxiety, among Lebanese university students. Methods: Thirty two participants from 5 different Lebanese universities were randomly assigned to one of two groups: a biofeedback or a control group. All participants filled pre- and post- measures including the Perceived Stress Scale and the State Trait Anxiety Inventory- form Y1. Results: The use of the HRV-BF intervention significantly reduced stress and state-anxiety (as shown by the PSS and STAI-Y1 scores). In contrast, only state-anxiety was reduced in the no-biofeedback control group. Conclusion: Results of this study support the use of HRV-BF among university students to help them manage their stress.