A scoping review of somatosensory interaction design for mental health and well-being

Abstract

This study explores the efficacy of somatosensory interactions in enhancing mental health care by examining the deployment and impact of these technologies. Based on a scoping review of 46 research studies, our analysis reveals that traditional mental health interventions often fail to align with prevalent technological trends. However, somatosensory interactions bridge this gap by creating immersive and engaging experiences. Our findings show considerable variability in the effectiveness, user engagement levels, and application methods of somatosensory technologies. Certain technology designs are particularly effective in promoting emotional well-being and reducing stress. Nonetheless, the diverse outcomes among the studies highlight the influence of factors such as design quality and user demographics. This variability underscores the need for more targeted studies to refine the application of somatosensory technologies, ensuring their effectiveness across different population segments. Ultimately, our insights emphasise the need to develop robust guidelines for integrating these technologies into comprehensive mental health strategies, thereby enhancing the related overall outcomes.