Sonic therapy for anxiety management in clinical settings

Abstract

Traditionally, healthcare facilities have been designed from a practical standpoint providing efficient spaces for laboratories and increased numbers of rooms to accommodate beds for patients. Such an approach has often led to facilities that "function effectively" but can indirectly create an atmosphere that is stressful, undermining the psychological needs of patients. This research uses an interdisciplinary approach combining immersive environmental sounds constructed as auditory journeys and biofeedback to help manage anxiety and stress in clinical settings. A study was designed exposing 55 patients experiencing anxiety and stress to the auditory journeys. Physiological measurements of skin conductance level (SCL) was used to index parasympathetic activation. Heart rate (HR), and heart rate variability (HF HRV and LF HRV) were used to index sympathetic activation. Although HR, HF HRV, and LF HRV showed no significant effects, the results from SCL were highly significant, suggesting that auditory journeys may assist patients with anxiety management.