Vagal Nerve Biofeedback Intervention for Improving Health Outcomes Among Ukrainian Forced Migrants: A Proof-of-Concept Study

Yori Gidron, Einav Levy (), Chen Hanna Ryder, Sharon Shaul, Rita Sirota and Drorit Atias
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Yori Gidron: Faculty of Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa 3103301, Israel
Einav Levy: Department of Social Work, Tel-Hai College, Qiryat Shmona 1220800, Israel
Chen Hanna Ryder: Brain & Behavior Research Institute, Western Galilee Academic College, Akko 2412101, Israel
Sharon Shaul: Clalit Health Services, Tel Aviv 6250769, Israel
Rita Sirota: Department of Cardiology, Carmel Hospital, Haifa 3103301, Israel
Drorit Atias: Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem 9112102, Israel

IJERPH, 2025, vol. 22, issue 4, 1-12

Abstract: Background: The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has forced numerous migrants into neighboring countries, many suffering from pre-existing or newly acquired physical and mental health conditions. Addressing these complex challenges in humanitarian settings requires innovative, evidence-based interventions that are cost-effective and easy to administer. Drawing upon research highlighting the vagus nerve’s role in regulating well-being, we hypothesized that vagal nerve activation could offer a promising therapeutic approach. Method: We conducted a proof-of-concept study in which 21 Ukrainian forced migrants were trained in a biofeedback-guided paced breathing intervention designed to stimulate the vagus nerve and promote self-regulation of stress response systems. Changes in pain perception, perceived stress, blood pressure, and heart rate were assessed before and after the vagal breathing intervention using a t -test. Correlations were examined at baseline. Results: Statistically significant improvements were observed in all measures except systolic blood pressure, providing preliminary evidence for the efficacy of vagal nerve activation in alleviating stress-related health symptoms. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the feasibility and therapeutic potential of a vagal nerve-activating intervention in a humanitarian setting. These findings warrant replication in larger, controlled trials. If substantiated, this low-cost, scalable intervention could help mitigate health burdens among forced migrant populations worldwide.

Keywords: Ukraine conflict; health conditions; vagal nerve; paced breathing; humanitarian action (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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