Heart rate variability and anxiety severity: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Compr PsychiatryJul 27, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchPsychiatry
Tamás Óvári, Arashk Árpád Zabihi, Nina Galdzytska et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the relationship between heart rate variability (HRV) and anxiety severity in adult populations using validated anxiety scales. The analysis included 79 studies, revealing significant correlations: BAI and HF (r = -0.09), HAM-A and HF (r = -0.32), and STAI and LF/HF ratio (r = 0.39).
Key findings
- BAI and HF showed a weak negative correlation (r = -0.09, p = .0239).
- HAM-A and HF had a moderate negative correlation (r = -0.32, p = .0423).
- STAI and LF/HF ratio showed a positive correlation (r = 0.39, p = .0017).
Why it matters
Understanding the physiological underpinnings of anxiety through HRV may enhance assessment strategies, providing clinicians with additional tools to evaluate and monitor anxiety severity beyond subjective measures.