University Presentation Showcase: Undergraduate Poster Gallery
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Creation Date
Spring 4-7-2026
Major
Psychology
Department
Psychology
Degree
Undergraduate
Mentor
Dan Florell
Mentor Department
Psychology
Abstract
Exploring the Apple Watch’s efficacy to detect symptoms of anxiety and depression using physiological data. Previous research notes lower heart rate variability (HRV) is associated with increased symptoms of depression and anxiety. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire (GAD-7) and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) are combined into the PHQ-GAD. Participants filled out a baseline PHQ-GAD during onboarding. The Apple Watch was worn for 2 weeks and heart rate (HR) and HRV were shared via Amissa Health. Daily PHQ-GAD surveys measured self-reported anxiety/depression symptoms. During debriefing, participants took a final PHQ-GAD. The results show Apple Watches accurately collect HR and HRV data. The preliminary data was heavily right skewed with influential outliers to find any significant results relating to the PHQ-GAD surveys, currently suggesting a negative correlation between heart rate variability and heart rate. Future research should focus on collecting participants within high anxiety and depression range on the PHQ-GAD.
