Smart patches are one example of an innovative, real-time tool that can help people in recovery manage cravings and avoid drug or alcohol use. Smart patches utilize biofeedback to help people become more aware of physiological changes that can indicate stress or the presence of cravings. Preliminary studies suggest smart patches can help reduce negative emotions, cravings, and relapse in early recovery from drug and alcohol addiction.
What is the smart patch or HRV biofeedback device?
Smart patches are wearable, sensor-based technology that monitor vital signs for health purposes. Smart patches use biofeedback, which involves tracking functions such as heart rate, breathing rate, muscle tension, and sweating to help someone become more attuned to their body. When someone is made aware that their heart rate is rising, for example, they can then learn and implement certain techniques to bring it back down to a healthier level.
The smart patches used for SUD focus on a vital sign called heart rate variability, which is slightly different from your heart rate. Heart rate is a simple measurement of how many beats your heart makes in one minute, which varies substantially depending on your activity level. Heart rate variability (HRV or HRVB), on the other hand, looks at the time variations between consecutive heartbeats.
HRV is an excellent indicator of health, as it demonstrates someone’s ability to fluidly adapt to stress by bringing their body back to a balanced state. [1] High heart rate variability is a preferred indicator since it measures how the body recovers from periods of stress.
Clinical evidence: Reduced relapse and cravings in recent trials
New research shows just how beneficial smart patches can be in addiction treatment. A study published in JAMA Psychiatry explored the effect that 8 weeks of HRV biofeedback device use had on adults with substance use disorders.
Results showed individuals who used smart patches had significantly fewer cravings, used alcohol/drugs significantly less, and experienced improvements in negative affect (outward display of emotion) compared to people who received treatment as usual. Specifically, individuals with alcohol use disorder were 64% less likely to use alcohol or other drugs compared to the control group. [2][5]
This study also aimed to determine specific bodily changes that contributed to these outcomes. Further exploration showed that HRV biofeedback devices appear to disrupt the connection between cravings and substance use. [2] For this reason, researchers believe smart patches can be a valuable addition to existing substance use disorder treatment.
Empowering self-awareness and stress management
There are many potential benefits from using smart patches in recovery from substance use disorders. Biofeedback can be an effective method to improve a person’s self-awareness of early signs of stress and cravings. Professionals commonly work with people in early recovery to identify their triggers and stressors that lead to substance use, and HRV can aid in this process. [4]Â
Wearable sensors such as smart patches can help someone observe their body’s signs of stress and cravings, which commonly lead to relapse. This awareness provides a chance to implement healthy coping skills that can help them avoid drug or alcohol relapse. [3] Therefore, stress management (and identification) is central in the treatment and long-term recovery from substance use disorders.
Mental health professionals often provide education on communication styles, relaxation techniques, and self-care skills to improve stress responses and overall adaptability. These methods – namely relaxation techniques – are used alongside smart patches.Â
Who might benefit most, and when to use smart patches
Smart patches can assist with SUD treatment for many individuals. However, they may be especially useful for individuals who have limited access to behavioral health providers due to their geographic location. Smart patches can also support those looking to pare down heavy substance use, lowering their risk of overdose and complications. [1]
The JAMA Psychiatry study included people in the first year of recovery, which is viewed as one of the most challenging periods in SUD recovery. Studies show that the majority of relapses occur within the first year of sobriety, making this a crucial window for intervention. Therefore, smart patches can be especially useful during that time. [5]
It is important to remember that there have not been many other studies on the effectiveness of smart patches in SUD treatment. This means researchers still have a lot to learn about the exact mechanisms that smart patches use to address SUD.
Integrating the smart patch with traditional recovery approaches
Smart patches are not intended to replace traditional SUD approaches, but they can work together to maximize the benefits seen from each treatment. For example, we mentioned that smart patches can be particularly useful for individuals who heavily use substances. These individuals may be at a greater risk of developing medical complications as a result of their consumption habits. Smart patches can assist providers in remotely monitoring these individuals more closely, which can prevent the need for hospitalization or treatment at an outpatient center.
Final thought
By harnessing existing biofeedback technology, smart patches can supplement existing SUD treatment. Smart patches are non-invasive, though their cost and novelty currently serve as a barrier to some, since they are not currently covered by health insurers. There is a need for more research exploring both short- and long-term outcomes associated with this wearable technology in order to fully assess potential risks and assist with implementation in SUD programs.
