Wearable smart textiles for mood regulation: A critical review of emerging technologies and their psychological impacts

Abstract

Mood fluctuations, influenced by factors such as workplace stress, academic pressure, and interpersonal relationships, can significantly affect mental health and decision making. Effective mood regulation is essential for maintaining psychological well-being, especially during critical developmental phases such as adolescence. Traditional mood management methods often rely on personal willpower and subjective techniques, which can be inadequate in high stress situations. Recent advancements in wearable technology, particularly in the field of smart textiles, have led to continuous and objective mood regulation. This review explores the integration of wearable smart textiles with mood regulation, focusing on emerging technologies that incorporate psychological principles into fabric designs. It examines various wearable textiles equipped with sensors, actuators, and biofeedback mechanisms that monitor physiological indicators related to mood, such as the heart rate and skin conductivity. These technologies not only provide real-time feedback but also offer interactive elements, such as temperature regulation, light modulation, and tactile feedback, allowing users to actively engage with their emotional states. In addition, the integration of mobile applications allows users to track mood patterns and identify emotional triggers, thereby enhancing their self-awareness. In the end, through a synthesis of the current research, this review discusses the psychological impacts of these wearables, including their efficacy in stress reduction, anxiety management, and overall emotional resilience. It also highlights the challenges and future research directions in the realm of wearable mood regulation.