Summary
Meta-analysis of remote HRV biofeedback interventions found medium effect sizes for improving depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms, supporting app-based biofeedback as accessible mental health intervention.
Methods
Systematic review and meta-analysis of remote HRV biofeedback studies
Key Findings
- Medium effect size (g = 0.41) for depression improvement
- Similar effects for anxiety and stress reduction
- HRV itself also improved (g = 0.44)
- Remote delivery as effective as in-person for many outcomes
Limitations
Varied protocols and control conditions across studies
What This Means for You
You don't need a clinic for HRV biofeedback—apps work. Regular practice with biofeedback apps like Elite HRV or HeartMath can meaningfully reduce anxiety and depression symptoms over time.
Source
Read the original paper in Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback ↗
Added to HRV Zone: 2025-01-07