Smart Home Stress Assist: A Real-Time Intervention for PTSD

Abstract

This paper details the development and initial testing of Smart Home Stress Assist (SHSA), a real-time intervention strategy for military service members with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Military service members affected by mTBI and PTSD are often taught evidence-based strategies such as grounding, deep breathing, and meditation to manage symptoms associated with physical and psychological trauma. However, many experience barriers to using these strategies in times of stress due to challenges with recalling and initiating the multiple steps in the strategies. SHSA was developed to help alleviate some of these challenges. SHSA uses the Amazon Echo and smart home technologies to provide automated support for implementing grounding strategies by changing a user's physical environment (e.g., light, temperature, sound and smell) to help them reconnect with the present moment. Additionally, pre-recorded audio files (e.g. calming music or a family member reminding the user they are safe), preset SMS messages, and cues to use other stress management strategies are provided in an aim to reduce the intensity of the stress episode. Preliminary sit-by user testing demonstrated acceptance within the target population. Additional testing is planned following completion of updates to the system based on user feedback.