Stress-Busting showdown: biofeedback vs meditation in students – trial pulled

NCT ID NCT06457932

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial aimed to see if heart rate variability biofeedback training (using a smartphone app) could reduce stress and anxiety in university students as well as or better than guided meditation. The study planned to enroll second- and third-year physiotherapy students and measure stress levels with standard questionnaires. However, the trial was withdrawn before any participants were enrolled, so no data were collected.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Heart rate variability biofeedback training and guided meditation

What this could lead to

If it had worked, this could point toward simple, low-cost ways for students to manage stress and anxiety without medication.

What could go wrong

The trial was withdrawn before enrolling any participants, so no results are available. Even if conducted, the small, specific student group may not represent broader populations.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.