Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 17, 2026

Evaluation of Commercial-Off-The-Shelf Wrist Wearables to Estimate Stress on Students
Published on: June 16, 2018
Evaluation of a portable stress management device
Jeon Lee1, Joseph Finkelstein1
1Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA.
The StressEraser device worsened cognitive performance in users, according to a study. It did not significantly reduce stress levels or improve heart rate variability (HRV) metrics.
Area of Science:
- Health technology evaluation
- Cognitive neuroscience
- Psychophysiology
Background:
- Portable consumer health devices are gaining traction.
- Biofeedback devices like StressEraser are marketed for stress relief and cognitive enhancement.
- Limited research exists on StressEraser's efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of the StressEraser biofeedback device on cognitive performance.
- To assess the StressEraser's effectiveness in stress relief.
Main Methods:
- A crossover design study was employed with fourteen participants.
- Cognitive performance was measured using a computerized psychomotor vigilance task (PVT).
- Stress levels were assessed via heart rate variability (HRV) and subjective reporting.
Main Results:
- Cognitive performance metrics (MeanRT, MedianRT, Fastest 10%) significantly worsened post-StressEraser use (P<0.05).
- No significant differences were observed in six HRV parameters (e.g., SDNN, RMSSD, LF/HF) between sessions.
- Subjective stress levels remained unchanged after using the device.
Conclusions:
- The StressEraser negatively impacted cognitive performance.
- The device demonstrated no significant effect on reducing stress levels.
- Further research is needed to validate claims of stress relief and cognitive enhancement.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques V
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques IV
Exercise Stress Test
Exercise stress testing, commonly known as a treadmill test, is a noninvasive procedure used to evaluate cardiovascular function and diagnose heart conditions.
Definition
An exercise stress test measures the heart's response to exertion using a treadmill or stationary bicycle. Chest electrodes record the heart's electrical activity through an ECG, and blood pressure is monitored regularly.
Purposes
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques III
The Role of Exercise in Stress Management
Regular physical activity is essential for reducing stress and promoting cardiovascular health. Exercise strengthens the heart, enhances blood flow, keeps blood vessels flexible, and helps lower blood pressure, all of which reduce the body's stress response. Research shows that adults who exercise regularly have nearly half the...
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques II
Type A Personality: Driven and Easily Stressed
Individuals with Type A personalities are often highly competitive and ambitious and operate with a strong sense of urgency. Commonly labeled as...
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques VI
Motivation and Self-Determination
Motivation, the driving force behind behavior, plays a pivotal role at every stage of the change process. The research...

