Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback in Security Forces

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback (HRV-BFB) Training: Participants receive a structured heart rate variability biofeedback (HRV-BFB) training protocol delivered over 4 weeks. The intervention uses a portable chest-worn ECG sensor (eSense Pulse) connected via Bluetooth to a mobile application that provides real-time visual feedback of heart rate variability. Each participant completes 12 individual sessions of 12 minutes each (one session every 2 days). Sessions take place in a quiet room and follow a standardized format: a brief preparation phase, followed by approximately 10 minutes of guided breathing at resonance frequency (around 6 breaths per minute) using a visual breathing guide. The application displays color-coded feedback indicating how closely the participant's physiological response matches the target HRV pattern, and participants are instructed to adjust their breathing and recall positive memories to maximize time in the desired state. The aim is to increase HRV, strengthen parasympathetic activation, and improve stress and

Study summary

This exploratory study evaluates the effectiveness of a 12-session Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback (HRV-BFB) protocol in reducing distress and burnout while promoting psychological well-being among Portuguese National Republican Guard (GNR) professionals. Exposed to high occupational stress from unpredictable risks, shift work, and limited resources, these individuals face elevated vulnerability to chronic stress outcomes. The intervention leverages real-time HRV feedback to enhance autonomic regulation, breathing techniques, and emotional self-regulation.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Change in Psychological Distress (Kessler Psychological Distress Scale - K10) — Baseline (Week 0), Post-intervention (Week 4), Follow-up (Week 10)
  The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K-10) is a 10-item self-report measure assessing psychological distress over the past 30 days. Items measure anxiety and depressive symptoms on a 5-point Likert scale (1=never to 5=always). Total score range: 10-50 (higher scores indicate greater distress). Portuguese validation: α=0.91. Primary outcome is change from baseline to post-intervention (week 4) and follow-up (week 10).
• Change in Occupational Burnout (Burnout Assessment Tool - BAT-12) — Baseline (Week 0), Post-intervention (Week 4), Follow-up (Week 10)
  The Burnout Assessment Tool Short Form (BAT-12) is a 12-item self-report measure of occupational burnout across 4 dimensions: exhaustion (3 items), mental distance (3 items), cognitive impairment (3 items), emotional impairment (3 items). 5-point Likert scale (1=never to 5=always). Total score range: 12-60. Portuguese validation: α=0.85. Primary outcome is change from baseline to post-intervention and follow-up.
• Change in Psychological Well-Being (WHO-5 Well-Being Index) — Baseline (Week 0), Post-intervention (Week 4), Follow-up (Week 10)
  The WHO-5 Well-Being Index is a 5-item self-report measure of psychological well-being over the past 2 weeks. Items assess positive mood, vitality, sleep, daily functioning, and life satisfaction on a 0-5 scale. Total score range: 0-25 (higher=higher well-being). Primary outcome is change from baseline to post-intervention and follow-up.

Trial sites (1)

More Egas Moniz - Cooperativa de Ensino Superior, CRL trials in Portugal

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