Wearable technology offers innovative ways to track and manage stress, leading to the rise of Wearable Stress Management Technology (WSMT). These devices can measure stress responses and suggest timely interventions, but how can we design them in a way that truly supports individuals? Despite growing interest, there is little guidance on how to develop WSMT that is user-friendly, effective, and aligned with individuals’ needs.

This literature review examines user perspectives on WSMT from 28 studies to uncover the key factors that encourage or hinder engagement. We highlight major design challenges, such as making stress feedback understandable and ensuring stress notifications are acceptable. Many of these challenges are interconnected, making designing human-centered WSMT especially complex.

To advance this field, we need more actionable design recommendations. Future research should explore how to differentiate between types of stress, account for users’ subjective experiences, and involve a more diverse range of people in the design process. Additionally, understanding user values such as privacy, autonomy, and trust will be crucial in shaping the future of WSMT.
Our findings guide designers in developing human-centered WSMT through 18 key design considerations. Additionally, we inform future research by outlining directions to improve stress feedback and notifications, differentiate stress types, and integrate user values and diversity.