Summary
Pilot randomized controlled trial found that HRV biofeedback training is feasible and shows promising effects for reducing anxiety in autistic adolescents while improving physiological self-regulation.
Methods
Pilot RCT of HRV biofeedback in adolescents with autism spectrum disorder
Key Findings
- HRV biofeedback is feasible in autistic adolescent population
- Participants learned to modulate HRV through biofeedback
- Improvements seen in anxiety measures
- HRV used as both intervention tool and outcome measure
- Promising as adjunct to behavioral interventions
Limitations
Pilot study with small sample, needs larger trials
What This Means for You
HRV biofeedback may be a useful tool for autistic individuals struggling with anxiety. The technique provides concrete, visual feedback that can make abstract concepts like "self-regulation" more tangible and learnable.
Source
Read the original paper in Frontiers in Psychiatry ↗
Added to HRV Zone: 2026-01-21