Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
. .
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR HELPING A USER TO DETECT
AND MANAGE THEIR STRESS USING A SMARTPHONE
BACKGROUND
Many diseases or conditions are associated with chronic stress. For
instance, obesity, depression, substance abuse, dropping out of school,
burnouts, and cognitive deficit disorders are all associated with chronic
stress.
Unfortunaly, stress cannot be removed from our lives since a given level of
stress is required in our life. In fact and upon detection of a threat, the
brain
activates the stress system that will mobilize the required energy so that the
body
is capable of facing the threat either by fighting it or by escaping it.
Despite the fact that, in western societies, life-threatening situations are
not common, stress has become one of the key health factors in our society.
One of the reactions of the body to an occurrence of stress is the releasing
of a molecule named cortisol. This molecule will enter the brain and affect
the
structures responsible for memory performance. One of the consequences of
repetitive stress situations will be a loss of the knowledge of the existing
stress
situations. As a direct consequence, chronic stress situations may occur since
repetitive stress may not be detected by our brain itself.
While some prior-art systems (C. Setz, B. Arnrich, J. Schumm,
R. La Marca, G. Troster, U. Ehlert, "Discriminating stress from load using a
wearable EDA device," IEEE Transf Inf Technol Biomed 14 (2010) 410-7) are
available for recording a level of stress, no feedback is provided back to the
user,
which is a serious limitation.
In addition, with prior-art systems, it is not possible to obtain or help a
user
create solutions for dealing with a stress, which is also a serious
limitation.
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There is a need for a method and system that will overcome at least one of
the above-identified drawbacks.
Features of the invention will be apparent from review of the disclosure,
drawings and description of the invention below.
BRIEF SUMMARY
According to a broad aspect, there is disclosed a method for helping a
user to manage their stress using a smartphone, the method comprising
receiving over time from the user, using the smartphone, a signal indicative
of a
level of stress; analyzing the received level of stress to detect a chronic
stress; if
a chronic stress is detected, informing the user of the detection; determining
a
source for the chronic stress; enabling the user to create an action plan
associated with the source of the chronic stress detected; and providing the
user
with the action plan to thereby enable the user to manage their stress.
In accordance with an embodiment, the receiving over time of the signal
.. indicative of a level of stress comprises installing an application on the
smartphone and providing a signal indicative of a level of stress via the
application installed.
In accordance with an embodiment, the installing of the application on the
smartphone comprises providing an application and configuring the application.
In accordance with an embodiment, the providing of the application
comprises downloading the application from a server via a data network.
In accordance with an embodiment, the configuring of the application is
performed by one of the user and an administrator.
In accordance with an embodiment, the configuring of the application
.. comprises providing an indication of a frequency for requesting the user to
provide the signal indicative of a level of stress.
In accordance with an embodiment, the indication of a frequency is
selected from a group consisting of once every hour, once every two hours,
once
every four hours and once per day.
In accordance with an embodiment, the indication of a frequency is
selected for a given number of days in a week.
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In accordance with an embodiment, the providing of a signal indicative of a
level of stress comprises displaying a graphics object on a graphics user
interface displayed by the application, the graphics object for selecting a
value
indicative of a level of stress.
In accordance with an embodiment, the graphics object comprises a
wheel, further wherein the value indicative of the level of stress is
comprised
between 0 and 9.
In accordance with an embodiment, the providing of a signal indicative of a
level of stress is performed following a request.
In accordance with an embodiment, the request is provided to the user
using at least one of a visual signal, an audio signal and a haptic signal.
In accordance with an embodiment, the received signal indicative of a
level of stress is greater than a given value, further wherein the method
comprises providing the user with a strategy to decrease body signs of stress
following the receiving of the received signal indicative of a level of
stress.
In accordance with an embodiment, the analyzing of the received level of
stress to detect a chronic stress is performed using a plurality of values
indicative
of a level of stress entered over time.
In accordance with an embodiment, the analyzing of the received level of
stress to detect a chronic stress comprises isolating a recurrence in the
plurality
of values indicative of a level of stress entered over time.
In accordance with an embodiment, the analyzing of the received level of
stress to detect a chronic stress is performed using a stress threshold value,
a
size of a time window for analyzing the plurality of values indicative of a
level of
stress and a minimum number of occurrences of values greater than the stress
threshold value in the time window for analyzing the plurality of values
indicative
of a level of stress.
In accordance with an embodiment, the informing of the user of the
detection of chronic stress comprises providing an alert message to the user
using the smartphone.
In accordance with an embodiment, the alert message comprises at least
one of a visual signal, an audio signal and a haptic signal.
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In accordance with an embodiment, the providing of an alert message to
the user using the smartphone comprises displaying an alert message on the
smartphone.
In accordance with an embodiment, the informing the user of the detection
comprises inviting the user to review at least one part of the plurality of
values
indicative of a level of stress.
In accordance with an embodiment, the inviting of the user to review the at
least one part of the plurality of values indicative of a level of stress
comprises
performing an authentication using an access code and displaying at least one
part of the plurality of values indicative of a level of stress to the user on
the
smartphone if the authentication is successful.
In accordance with an embodiment, the displaying of the at least one part
of the plurality of values indicative of a level of stress to the user on the
smartphone comprises generating a graph of at least one part of the plurality
of
values in a Cartesian coordinate system in which a an x-axis is used for
displaying a temporal scale while an y-axis is used for displaying an
intensity
scale.
In accordance with an embodiment, the method further comprises
identifying at least one location in the graph corresponding to presence of
chronic
stress.
In accordance with an embodiment, the determining of the source of
chronic stress comprises informing the user on a difference between chronic
stress and acute stress, the informing comprising displaying a video to the
user
on the smartphone of the user.
In accordance with an embodiment, the video is downloaded from a
website.
In accordance with an embodiment, the determining of the source of
chronic stress comprises providing an indication of a level of stress from the
signal indicative of a level of stress received over time and detecting if the
provided indication of a level of stress is greater than a given value,
further
comprising requesting the user to provide an indication of at least one
characteristic of a corresponding situation responsible for the indication of
a level
of stress greater than the given value.
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In accordance with an embodiment, the at least one characteristic of a
corresponding situation responsible for the indication of a level of stress
greater
than the given value is selected from a group consisting of a situation
perceived
as new, a situation perceived as unpredictable, a situation perceived as
threatening for the ego and a situation perceived as inducing a low sense of
control.
In accordance with an embodiment, the enabling of the user to create an
action plan associated with the source of the chronic stress detected
comprises
notifying the user for creating an action plan.
In accordance with an embodiment, the notifying the user for creating an
action plan comprises providing at least one of a visual signal, an audio
signal
and a haptic signal.
In accordance with an embodiment, the enabling of the user to create an
action plan associated with the source of the chronic stress detected
comprises
the user providing an indication of a situation generating stress, the user
providing at least one characteristic of a corresponding situation responsible
for
generating stress and describing a strategy for responding to the provided at
least one characteristic of a corresponding situation.
In accordance with one aspect, there is disclosed a processing device for
helping a user to manage their stress, the processing device comprising a
display
device; a central processing unit; a communication port for connecting the
processing device to another processing device via a data network; an input
output port for enabling the user to interact with the processing device; and
a
memory unit comprising instructions for receiving over time from the user,
using
the input output port, a signal indicative of a level of stress; instructions
for
analyzing the received level of stress to detect a chronic stress;
instructions for, if
a chronic stress is detected, informing the user of the detection; determining
a
source for the chronic stress; enabling the user to create an action plan
associated with the source of the chronic stress detected and providing the
user
with the action plan to thereby enable the user to manage their stress.
In accordance with another broad aspect, there is disclosed a computer-
readable storage medium for storing computer-executable instructions which
when executed cause a smartphone to perform a method for helping a user to
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manage their stress, the method comprising receiving over time from the user,
using the smartphone, a signal indicative of a level of stress; analyzing the
received level of stress to detect a chronic stress; if a chronic stress is
detected,
informing the user of the detection; determining a source for the chronic
stress;
enabling the user to create an action plan associated with the source of the
chronic stress detected and providing the user with the action plan to thereby
enable the user to manage their stress.
An advantage of the method disclosed is that it may enable the collecting
of stress data associated with a user over a period of time that may be
configured
according to a requirement.
Another advantage of the method disclosed herein is that it may enable a
user to readily identify chronic stress and provide feedback on the chronic
stress
to the user.
Another advantage of the method disclosed herein is that it provides
feedback data pertaining to stress data over time.
Another advantage of the method disclosed is that it enables a user to
identify stress factors which result in a high level of stress.
Another advantage of the method disclosed is that it may help a user
decrease their level of stress through providing them strategies to do it, on
the
spot.
Another advantage of the method disclosed is that it may help a user
define, implement and readily access action plans which can be used for the
purpose of managing stress.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In order that the invention may be readily understood, embodiments of the
invention are illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings.
Figure 1 is a diagram which shows an embodiment of a system for helping
a user to detect and manage their stress using a smartphone.
Figure 2 is a flowchart which shows an embodiment of a method for
helping a user to manage their stress using a smartphone.
Figure 3 is a flowchart which shows an embodiment for receiving over time
a signal indicative of a level of stress.
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Figure 4 is a flowchart which shows an embodiment for installing an
application in a smartphone.
Figure 5 is a flowchart which shows an embodiment for informing a user of
a detection of chronic stress.
Figure 6a is a flowchart which shows an embodiment for determining a
source for the chronic stress.
Figure 6b is a flowchart which shows an embodiment for creating an action
plan when a pattern of chronic stress is detected.
Figure 7 is a screenshot which shows an embodiment of a graphics user
interface (GUI) for displaying stress data over time.
Figure 8 is a screenshot which shows an embodiment of a graphics user
interface for displaying stress data over time with specific elements
highlighted
using a given color.
Figure 9a is a screenshot which shows an embodiment of a graphics user
interface for providing parameters for detecting chronic stress.
Figure 9b is a screenshot which shows an embodiment of a graphics user
interface for providing a minimum level of stress.
Figure 9c is a screenshot which shows an embodiment of a graphics user
interface for providing a size of a time window for analyzing the plurality of
values
indicative of a level of stress interval limit.
Figure 10 is a screenshot which shows an embodiment of a graphics user
interface for informing a user of a detection of chronic stress.
Figure 11 is a screenshot which shows an embodiment of a graphics user
interface for inputting at least one of four possible characteristics of a
situation.
Figure 12 is a diagram which shows an example of stress data with
associated characteristics provided by the user.
Figure 13 is a diagram which shows, inter alia, two screenshots which
show an embodiment of a graphics user interface for displaying stress data
including characteristics associated therewith.
Figure 14 is a screenshot which shows three screenshots of a graphics
user interface for, inter alia, informing a user of a suggestion to create an
action
plan for managing stress.
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Figure 15 is a screenshot which shows an embodiment of a graphics user
interface for building an action plan.
Figure 16 is a diagram which shows an embodiment of a processing
device in which the method disclosed herein may be implemented.
Further details of the invention and its advantages will be apparent from
the detailed description included below.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
In the following description of the embodiments, references to the
accompanying drawings are by way of illustration of an example by which the
invention may be practiced. It will be understood that other embodiments may
be
made without departing from the scope of the invention disclosed.
Now referring to Fig. 1, there is shown an embodiment of a system 100 in
which a method for helping a user to manage their stress using a smartphone
may be implemented.
More precisely, the system 100 comprises a server 102, a data network
104 and a plurality of smartphones 106.
The server 102 is used for uploading data to and storing data from each of
the plurality of smartphones 106, synchronizing data between the server 102
and
each of the plurality of smartphones 106, and sharing and analyzing data from
each of the plurality of smartphones 106; as further explained below.
The server 102 is operatively connected to each of the plurality of
smartphones 106 via the data network 104.
In an embodiment, the server 102 is a computer which comprises a central
processing unit (CPU), memory, and permanent storage, such as a hard disk
drive. The server 102 is in a LAMP software stack configuration (Centos Linux
operating system with an Apache HTTP Server, MySQL as a database software
and PHP for producing dynamic web pages). It will be appreciated that the
server 102 has a worldwide web accessible user interface programmed in one
embodiment using PHP, CSS, and JavaScript that provides browser
(e.g., Firefox, Internet explorer, Safari, Chrome) access to smartphone data.
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The server 102 is operatively connected to the data network 104 using a
network interface, not shown. The network interface comprises, in one
embodiment, a physical Ethernet (IEEE 802.3) connected to the Internet.
As known to the skilled addressee, the Internet is a worldwide network of
interconnected computer networks that operates using a standardized set of
communications protocols identified as transmission control protocol/Internet
protocol (TCP/IP).
It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that various alternative
embodiments may be provided for the server 102.
In particular, the server 102 may operate using another distribution of
Linux, or another operating system such as for instance Unix, MAC OS X
manufactured by Apple, or MS Windows manufactured by Microsoft.
Alternatively, a web server such as MS Windows IIS, Lighttpd, or Oracle's Sun
web server may be used. Alternatively, database such as Oracle, MS Windows
SQL Server, PostgreSQL may be used. Still in
another embodiment,
programming languages such as Java, Pen, or Microsoft ASP C# may be used.
It will be appreciated that the server 102 may also comprise a cluster of
computers with processing and database processes distributed over the
computers.
The data network 104 is used for sharing data with at least the server 102
and each of the plurality of smartphones 106.
It will be appreciated that in an embodiment the data network 104
comprises the Internet and includes all networks that support the TCP/IP and
may comprise at least one of a local area network (LAN), a metropolitan area
network (MAN), a wide area network (WAN), a cellular network, etc.
In an embodiment, the data network 104 between the server 102 and the
plurality of smartphones 106 comprises all wireless communication networks
that
support TCP/IP (e.g. CDMA, GSM, Wi-Fi, WiMAX, etc.)
Each of the plurality of smartphones 106 is used for sharing data via an
application, as explained further below.
Each of the plurality of smartphones 106 is typically used by a user who is
looking to detect and manage their stress using a smartphone.
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It will be appreciated that the smartphones of the plurality of smartphones
106 may be of various types. In fact, each smartphone of the plurality of
smartphones 106 may run a given operating system.
In an embodiment, each smartphone is an iPhone(TM) or iPAD(TM) running
iOS and manufactured by Apple(Tm).
It will be appreciated that a smartphone may alternatively run on an
operating system selected from a group consisting of Blackberry OS, Android,
Linux, Windows mobile, Web0S, Bada, Symbian OS, etc. It will be appreciated
that each smartphone of the plurality of smartphones 106 is provided with an
application as further explained below.
Now referring to Fig. 2, there is shown an embodiment of a method 200 for
helping a user to manage their stress using a smartphone.
According to processing step 202, a signal indicative of a level of stress is
received over time. It will be appreciated that the level of stress is related
to a
level of stress perceived by the user.
It will be appreciated that the signal indicative of a level of stress could
alternatively be acquired via the smartphone by other systems such as sensor
of
stress-related physiological, vocal, behavioural or neuronal indicator from
the
user.
Now referring to Fig. 3, there is shown an embodiment for receiving over
time a signal indicative of a level of stress.
According to processing step 302, an application is installed on the
smartphone.
Referring to Fig. 4, there is shown an embodiment for installing the
application on the smartphone.
According to processing step 402, the application is provided to a
smartphone.
In an embodiment, the application is downloaded from a server via a data
network. The skilled addressee will appreciate that the downloading may be
performed according to various embodiments.
According to processing step 404, the application is configured by the
user.
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It will be appreciated that the application may alternatively be configured
by an administrator managing the application.
The skilled addressee will appreciate that various elements of the
application may be configured as explained further below.
For instance, a frequency for requesting the user to provide the signal
indicative of a level of stress may be configured.
In such case and in accordance with one embodiment, the user is asked to
enter how many times per day the application will capture and/or request the
user
to provide the signal indicative of a level of stress.
In an embodiment, the user selects the frequency from a group consisting
of once every hour, once every two hours, once every four hours and once
per day.
Still in an embodiment, it will be appreciated that the user may choose the
frequency for a given number of days in a week.
Now referring back to Fig. 3 and according to processing step 304, a
signal indicative of a level of stress is provided.
It will be appreciated by the skilled addressee that the signal indicative of
a
level of stress may be provided according to various embodiments.
In an embodiment, the signal indicative of a level of stress is provided via
the graphics user interface of the smartphone of the user.
More precisely, the user is invited to select a value indicative of a level of
stress using a graphics object displayed on a graphics user interface
displayed
by the application. In one embodiment, the graphics object comprises a wheel
displayed on the graphics user interface of the application. In this
embodiment,
the user flicks or drags to spin the wheel until it displays a desired value
beneath
the clear selection bar that stretches across the middle of the picker.
In an embodiment, the value indicative of a level of stress is comprised
between 0 and 9. Still in this embodiment, a 0 value is associated with a
perceived no stress condition, while a 9 value is associated with a perceived
extremely high level of stress.
The skilled addressee will appreciate that various alternative embodiments
may be provided for providing the value indicative of a level of stress.
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It will be therefore appreciated that the level of stress is provided over
time
in accordance with the frequency selected by the user.
Moreover, it will be appreciated that the signal indicative of a level of
stress may be provided following a request made to the user.
It will be appreciated that the request may be provided to the user
according to various embodiments. For instance, the request may be provided to
the user using at least one of a visual signal, an audio indication and a
haptic
signal. The visual signal may comprise an element displayed on the graphics
user interface of the smartphone. The audio signal may comprise a sound
played by the smartphone. The haptic signal may comprise a vibration generated
by the smartphone.
In an embodiment, the request is provided to the user using a given sound
played by the smartphone and a visual indication informing the user that the
application requires an indication of a level of stress.
It will be appreciated that in the case of a detection of a high level of
stress, the user may be provided with a strategy to decrease body signs of
stress
following the receiving of the signal indicative of a level of stress.
The strategy may be one of the strategies that have been validated by
studies using psychoneuroendocrinological methods, meaning the measure of
stress hormones.
Those strategies have been justified for instance in Kirschbaum, C.,
Klauer, T., Filipp, S.H., and Hel!hammer, D.H. (1995), "Sex-specific effects
of
social support on cortisol and subjective responses to acute psychological
stress," Psychosomatic Medicine, 57(1), 23 31; in Roy, M.P., Steptoe, A., and
Kirschbaum, C. (1998), "Life events and social support as moderators of
individual differences in cardiovascular and cortisol reactivity," Journal of
personality and social psychology, 75(5), 1273-1281; in Martikainen, S.,
Pesonen, A.-K., Lahti, J., Heinonen, K., Feldt, K., Pyhala, R., et al. (2013),
"Higher Levels of Physical Activity Are Associated With Lower Hypothalamic-
Pituitary-Adrenocortical Axis Reactivity to Psychosocial Stress in Children,"
The
Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism. doi:10.1210/jc.2012-3745; in
Rimmele, U., Zellweger, B.C., Marti, B., Seiler, R., Mohiyeddini, C., Ehlert,
U.,
and Heinrichs, M. (2007), "Trained men show lower cortisol, heart rate and
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psychological responses to psychosocial stress compared with untrained men,"
Psychoneuroendocrinology, 32(6), 627-635, doi:10.1016/j.psyneuen.2007.04.005;
and in Martarelli, D., Cocchioni, M., Scuri, S., and Pompei, P. (2011),
"Diaphragmatic breathing reduces exercise-induced oxidative stress," Evidence-
based complementary and alternative medicine: eCAM,
2011, 932430.
doi:10.1093/ecam/nep169.
Still referring to Fig. 2 and according to processing step 204, the received
level of stress is analyzed to detect a chronic stress.
It will be appreciated that the analysis is performed using a plurality of
values indicative of a level of stress and entered by the user over time.
In an embodiment, the analysis comprises determining a pattern of chronic
stress. The pattern of chronic stress may be detected by isolating a
recurrence in
the plurality of values indicative of a level of stress that have been
provided by
the user within a certain period of time.
In an embodiment, three parameters are used for determining a pattern of
chronic stress.
A first parameter is a stress threshold value.
In an embodiment, the first parameter may be selected from a group
consisting of a value higher than 0.
A second parameter comprises a size of a time window for analyzing the
plurality of values indicative of a level of stress.
In an embodiment, the second parameter is selected from a group
consisting of 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 1 month and 2 months.
A third parameter comprises a minimum number of occurrences of values
greater than the stress threshold value in the time window for analyzing the
plurality of values indicative of a level of stress.
In an embodiment, the third parameter is selected from a group consisting
of a value higher than 2.
Now referring to Fig. 9a and to Figs. 9b and 9c, there are shown examples
of a graphics user interface for providing the first, the second and the third
parameter for detecting chronic stress. For instance, the minimum level of
stress
is set in Fig. 9b and the size of a time window for analyzing the plurality of
values
indicative of a level of stress interval limit is set in Fig. 9c.
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In an embodiment, an algorithm uses the first, the second and the third
parameter for identifying a pattern of chronic stress.
For instance, it may be detected that the indication of a level of stress is
greater in the afternoon than in the morning or that the indication of a level
of
stress is greater on Tuesday afternoon than during the rest of the week.
In the case where chronic stress is detected and in accordance with
processing step 206, the user is informed of the detection.
Now referring to Fig. 5, there is shown an embodiment for informing the
user of a detection of chronic stress.
According to processing step 502, the user is provided with an alert
message on its smartphone. It will be appreciated that the alert message may
be
provided according to various embodiments.
For instance, the alert message may comprise at least one of a visual
signal, an audio signal and a haptic signal.
The visual signal may comprise an alert message displayed on the
graphics user interface of the smartphone.
The audio signal may comprise a sound played by the smartphone.
The haptic signal may comprise a vibration generated by the smartphone.
In an embodiment, the alert message comprises a visual indication that a
possible chronic stress has been detected.
Now referring to Fig. 10, there is shown an embodiment of a graphics user
interface for informing a user of a detection of chronic stress.
According to processing step 504, the user is invited to review the stress
data, also referred to as data, an embodiment of which is the plurality of
values
indicative of a level of stress.
In an embodiment, the user is required to enter an access code in order to
access the data. The skilled addressee will appreciate that requiring an
access
code for accessing the data may be pertinent since the data are confidential.
According to processing step 506, the data are displayed on the graphics
user interface. It will be appreciated that the data may be displayed
according to
various embodiments.
In an embodiment, a graph is used to display the data. The graph is used
for displaying a level of stress over time.
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In an embodiment, a Cartesian coordinate system is used for displaying
the data with a temporal scale on the x-axis and an intensity scale of stress
on
the y-axis.
Now referring to Fig. 7, there is shown an embodiment of a graphics user
interface used for displaying stress data over time.
It will be appreciated that specific elements in the graph may be identified
by highlighting at least one part of the graph using a red color, for
instance.
In one embodiment, those specific elements consist of locations in the
graph where a chronic stress has been detected.
Fig. 8 shows an embodiment of a graphics user interface used for
displaying stress data over time with specific elements highlighted using a
given
color.
Now referring back to Fig. 2 and according to processing step 208, a
source for the chronic stress is determined by the user.
Now referring to Fig. 6a, there is shown an embodiment for determining a
source of chronic stress.
According to processing step 602, the user is informed on the differences
between chronic stress and acute level of stress.
The user is informed on a way to control this chronic stress through the
identification of its sources. In one embodiment a video is used for the
purpose
of informing the user.
In an embodiment, the user is informed on the differences between an
acute level of stress and chronic stress and on the way to control it, using a
video
displayed on the smartphone. It will be appreciated that in one embodiment,
the
videos are stored on the smartphone. In an alternative embodiment, videos are
downloaded from a server, or are streamed from a website.
According to processing step 604, an indication of a level of stress is
provided. As mentioned above, it will be appreciated that the indication of a
level
of stress may be provided by the user according to various embodiments.
According to processing step 606, a test is performed in order to find out if
the provided indication of a level of stress provided by the user is greater
than a
given value. The provided indication of a level of stress is obtained from the
signal indicative of a level of stress received over time.
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In an embodiment, the given value is equal to 6, but may be configured.
In the case where the indication of a level of stress provided by the user is
greater than the given value, and in accordance with processing step 608, the
user is required to provide a characteristic (also referred to as a stress
factor) of a
corresponding situation.
It will be appreciated that there are four characteristics in a situation that
will contribute to the generation of stress (Mason, J. (1968), "A review of
psychoendocrine research on the pituitary-adrenal cortical system,"
Psychosomatic Medicine, 30(5), 576.; Dickerson, S.S., and Kemeny, M.E. (2004),
"Acute stressors and cortisol responses: a theoretical integration and
synthesis of
laboratory research, Psychological Bulletin, 130(3), 355-391. doi:10.1037/0033-
2909.130.3.355; Lupien S.J., Ouellet-Morin, I., Hupbach, A., Walker, D, Tu,
M,T.,
Buss, C., Pruessner, J., McEwen, B.S. (2006), "Beyond the Stress Concept:
Allostatic Load ¨ A Development Biological and Cognitive Perspective,"
In: Cicchetti, D. (ed) Handbook Series on Developmental Psychopathology,
784-809).
A first characteristic of a situation that will contribute to the generation
of
stress is that the situation is perceived as new by the user.
A second characteristic of a situation that will contribute to the generation
of stress is that the situation is perceived as unpredictable by the user.
A third characteristic of a situation that will contribute to the generation
of
stress is that the situation is perceived by the user as threatening to its
ego (i.e.,
related to self-esteem).
A fourth characteristic of a situation that will contribute to the generation
of
stress is the fact the situation is perceived as inducing a low sense of
control.
It will be appreciated that the providing of at least one characteristic
associated with a situation may be performed according to various embodiments.
In an embodiment, four switches are displayed on a user interface and the
user slides the control to select and reveal one of two values.
More precisely, each switch is used for selecting absence or presence of
one of the four characteristics described above and as shown in Fig. 11.
Now referring to Fig. 12, there is shown an example of stress data with
associated characteristics provided by the user.
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Now referring to Fig. 13, there is shown a diagram which shows, inter alia,
two screenshots which show an embodiment of a graphics user interface for
displaying stress data including characteristics associated.
Now referring back to Fig. 6b, there is shown an embodiment for creating
an action plan when a pattern of chronic stress is detected.
According to processing step 602, the user is informed on the differences
between chronic stress and acute level of stress.
The user is informed on a way to control this chronic stress through the
identification of its sources. In one embodiment a video is displayed on the
smartphone for the purpose of informing the user.
As mentioned earlier and in an embodiment, the user is informed on the
differences between an acute level of stress and chronic stress and on the way
to
control it, using a video displayed on the smartphone. In one embodiment, the
videos are stored on the smartphone. In an alternative embodiment, videos are
downloaded from a server, or streamed from a website.
According to processing step 604, an indication of a level of stress is
provided by the user. As mentioned above, it will be appreciated that the
indication of a level of stress may be provided by the user according to
various
embodiments.
According to processing step 612, a test is performed in order to find out if
chronicity is detected in high stress.
In the case where chronicity is detected and according to processing step
210, the user is provided with means for creating an action plan.
It will be appreciated that the action plan may be created once chronic
stress is detected.
For instance, a first parameter comprises a stress threshold value.
In an embodiment, the first parameter may be selected from a group
consisting of a value higher than 0.
A second parameter comprises a size of a time window for analyzing the
plurality of values indicative of a level of stress.
In an embodiment, the second parameter is selected from a group
consisting of 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 1 month and 2 months.
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A third parameter comprises a minimum number of occurrences of values
greater than the stress threshold value in the time window for analyzing the
plurality of values indicative of a level of stress.
In an embodiment, the third parameter is selected from a group consisting
of a value higher than or equal to 3.
The purpose of creating an action plan is to help the user to identify the
situation responsible for the chronic stress, to identify the characteristics
at the
origin of the stressfulness of the situation (i.e., novelty, unpredictability,
threat to
ego and low sense of control) and to readily find possible solutions as
explained
further below.
The user will therefore enter a strategy for dealing with the given stress.
It will be appreciated that the user may be invited to create an action plan
according to various embodiments. In one embodiment, the user may be notified
to create an action plan. The notifying the user to create an action plan may
comprise providing at least one of a visual signal, an audio signal and a
haptic
signal.
The visual signal may comprise an element displayed on the graphics user
interface of the smartphone. The audio signal may comprise a sound played by
the smartphone. The haptic signal may comprise a vibration generated by the
smartphone.
In an embodiment, the invitation message comprises a visual indication.
Now referring to Fig. 14, there is shown an embodiment of a graphics user
interface for inviting a user to create an action plan.
Now referring to Fig. 15, there is shown an example of a graphics user
interface 1700 used for building an action plan.
The skilled addressee will appreciate that various alternative embodiments
may be provided for building an action plan.
The graphics user interface 1700 comprises a first part 1702 in which the
user is invited to describe the stressful situation the user is presently
living, i.e.,
provide an indication of a situation generating stress.
The graphics user interface 1700 further comprises a second part 1704 in
which the user is invited to select at least one of the four characteristics
perceived associated with the situation.
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The graphics user interface 1700 further comprises a third part 1706 in
which the user is invited to enter a strategy for at least one of the selected
characteristics of a corresponding situation responsible for generating
stress.
It will be appreciated that various embodiments of the action plan may be
provided.
According to processing step 212, the user is provided with the created
action plan.
It will be appreciated that the user may access a plurality of created action
plans.
For example, sources of stress, such as novelty, unpredictability, threats to
ego and low sense of control, may change, and thus the strategies associated
with each source of stress may change for a given situation. Those action
plans
may be used upon request from the user when a specific situation occurs which
is of great advantage. The user is therefore provided with tools for managing
a
stress associated with a given situation.
In one embodiment, the user will also be able to find out if a given action
plan was helpful or not and to use again this action plan if it has been
helpful.
Now referring to Fig. 16, there is shown an embodiment of a processing
device 1800 in which the method for helping a user to manage their stress
using
a smartphone may be advantageously used.
The processing device 1800 comprises a central processing unit 1802, a
display device 1804, an input output (I/O) device 1806, communication ports
1808, a data bus 1810 and a memory 1812.
The central processing unit 1802, the display device 1804, the I/O device
1806, the communication port 1808 and the memory 1812 are operatively
coupled using the data bus 1812.
More precisely, the central processing unit 1802 is adapted for processing
data instructions.
The display device 1804 is used for displaying data to a user.
The communication port 1808 is adapted for operatively connecting the
processing device 1800 to another processing device (not shown) via a data
network (not shown).
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The skilled addressee will appreciate that various embodiments of the
communication port 1808 may be provided. Moreover, the skilled addressee will
also appreciate that the communication port 1808 may operate according to
various communication protocols, such as TCP/IP for instance.
The I/O device 1806 is used for enabling a user to interact with the
processing device 1800. The skilled addressee will appreciate that various
embodiments of the I/O device 1806 may be used.
The skilled addressee will also appreciate that various embodiments of the
data bus 1810 may be provided.
It will also be appreciated that various embodiments of the memory 1812
may be provided.
Moreover, it will be appreciated that the memory 1812 may be used for
storing, in an embodiment, an operating system 1814 and an application for
helping a user to manage their stress using a smartphone 1816, wherein the
application for helping a user to manage their stress using a smartphone 1816
is
configured to be executed by the central processing unit 1802.
The application for helping a user to manage their stress using a
smartphone 1816 comprises instructions for receiving over time from the user,
using the smartphone, a signal indicative of a level of stress.
The application for helping a user to manage their stress using a
smartphone 1816 further comprises instructions for analyzing the received
level
of stress to detect a chronic stress.
The application for helping a user to manage their stress using a
smartphone 1816 further comprises instructions for, if a level of stress is
greater
than a given value, decreasing symptoms of stress by using scientific
strategies.
The application for helping a user to manage their stress using a
smartphone 1816 further comprises instructions for, if a chronic stress is
detected, informing the user of the detection; instructions for determining a
source for the chronic stress; instructions for enabling the user to create an
action
plan associated with the source of the chronic stress detected; instructions
for
providing the user with the action plan.
It will be also appreciated that a computer-readable storage medium is
disclosed for storing computer-executable instructions which, when executed,
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cause a smartphone to perform a method for helping a user to manage their
stress, the method comprising receiving over time from the user, using the
smartphone, a signal indicative of a level of stress; analyzing the received
level of
stress to detect a chronic stress; if a chronic stress is detected, informing
the user
of the detection; determining a source for the chronic stress; enabling the
user to
create an action plan associated with the source of the chronic stress
detected;
and providing the user with the action plan to thereby enable the user to
manage
their stress.
It will be appreciated that an advantage of the method disclosed is that it
enables the collecting of stress data associated with a user over a period of
time
which may be configured according to a requirement.
Another advantage of the method disclosed herein is that it may enable a
user to readily identify chronic stress and provide feedback on the chronic
stress
to the user.
Another advantage of the method disclosed herein is that it may provide
feedback data pertaining to stress data over time.
Another advantage of the method disclosed is that it may enable a user to
identify stress factors which result in a high level of stress in his/her own
life.
Another advantage of the method disclosed is that it may help a user
define, implement and readily access action plans which can be used for the
purpose of managing stress.
Clause 1: A method for helping a user to manage their stress using a
smartphone, the method comprising: receiving over time from the user, using
the
smartphone, a signal indicative of a level of stress; analyzing the received
level of
stress to detect a chronic stress; if a chronic stress is detected, informing
the user
of the detection; determining a source for the chronic stress; enabling the
user to
create an action plan associated with the source of the chronic stress
detected;
and providing the user with the action plan to thereby enable the user to
manage
their stress.
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Clause 2: The method as claimed in clause 1, wherein the receiving over
time of the signal indicative of a level of stress comprises installing an
application
on the smartphone and providing a signal indicative of a level of stress via
the
application installed.
Clause 3: The method as claimed in clause 2, wherein the installing of the
application on the smartphone comprises providing an application and
configuring the application.
Clause 4: The method as claimed in clause 3, wherein the providing of the
application comprises downloading the application from a server via a data
.. network.
Clause 5: The method as claimed in any ones of clauses 3 to 4, wherein
the configuring of the application is performed by one of the user and an
administrator.
Clause 6: The method as claimed in any ones of clauses 3 to 5, wherein
the configuring of the application comprises providing an indication of a
frequency
for requesting the user to provide the signal indicative of a level of stress.
Clause 7: The method as claimed in clause 6, wherein the indication of a
frequency is selected from a group consisting of once every hour, once every
two
hours, once every four hours and once per day.
Clause 8: The method as claimed in any ones of clauses 6 to 7, wherein
the indication of a frequency is selected for a given number of days in a
week.
Clause 9: The method as claimed in any ones of clauses 1 to 8, wherein
the providing of a signal indicative of a level of stress comprises displaying
a
graphics object on a graphics user interface displayed by the application, the
graphics object for selecting a value indicative of a level of stress.
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Clause 10: The method as claimed in clause 9, wherein the graphics
object comprises a wheel, further wherein the value indicative of the level of
stress is comprised between 0 and 9.
Clause 11: The method as claimed in any ones of clauses 2 to 8, wherein
the providing of a signal indicative of a level of stress is performed
following a
request.
Clause 12: The method as claimed in clause 11, wherein the request is
provided to the user using at least one of a visual signal, an audio signal
and a
haptic signal.
Clause 13: The method as claimed in any ones of clauses 1 to 12,
wherein the received signal indicative of a level of stress is greater than a
given
value, further comprising providing the user with a strategy to decrease body
signs of stress following the receiving of the received signal indicative of a
level of
stress.
Clause 14: The method as claimed in any ones of clauses 9 to 10,
wherein the analyzing of the received level of stress to detect a chronic
stress is
performed using a plurality of values indicative of a level of stress entered
over
time.
Clause 15: The method as claimed in clause 14, wherein the analyzing of
the received level of stress to detect a chronic stress comprises isolating a
recurrence in the plurality of values indicative of a level of stress entered
over
time.
Clause 16: The method as claimed in clause 15, wherein the analyzing of
the received level of stress to detect a chronic stress is performed using a
stress
threshold value, a size of a time window for analyzing the plurality of values
indicative of a level of stress and a minimum number of occurrences of values
greater than the stress threshold value in the time window for analyzing the
plurality of values indicative of a level of stress.
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Clause 17: The method as claimed in any ones of clauses 1 to 16,
wherein the informing of the user of the detection of chronic stress comprises
providing an alert message to the user using the smartphone.
Clause 18: The method as claimed in clause 17, wherein the alert
message comprises at least one of a visual signal, an audio signal and a
haptic
signal.
Clause 19: The method as claimed in clause 17, wherein the providing of
an alert message to the user using the smartphone comprises displaying an
alert
message on the smartphone.
Clause 20: The method as claimed in any ones of clauses 9, 10, 14, 15,
16, wherein the informing the user of the detection comprises inviting the
user to
review at least one part of the plurality of values indicative of a level of
stress.
Clause 21: The method as claimed in clause 20, wherein the inviting of
the user to review the at least one part of the plurality of values indicative
of a
level of stress comprises performing an authentication using an access code
and
displaying at least one part of the plurality of values indicative of a level
of stress
to the user on the smartphone if the authentication is successful.
Clause 22: The method as claimed in clause 21, wherein the displaying of
the at least one part of the plurality of values indicative of a level of
stress to the
user on the smartphone comprises generating a graph of at least one part of
the
plurality of values in a Cartesian coordinate system in which a an x-axis is
used
for displaying a temporal scale while an y-axis is used for displaying an
intensity
scale.
Clause 23: The method as claimed in clause 22, further comprising
identifying at least one location in the graph corresponding to presence of
chronic
stress.
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Clause 24: The method as claimed in any ones of clauses 1 to 23,
wherein the determining of the source of chronic stress comprises informing
the
user on a difference between chronic stress and acute stress, the informing
comprising displaying a video to the user on the smartphone of the user.
Clause 25: The method as claimed in clause 24, wherein the video is
downloaded from a website.
Clause 26: The method as claimed in any ones of clauses 1 to 25,
wherein the determining of the source of chronic stress comprises providing an
indication of a level of stress from the signal indicative of a level of
stress
received over time and detecting if the provided indication of a level of
stress is
greater than a given value, further comprising requesting the user to provide
an
indication of at least one characteristic of a corresponding situation
responsible
for the indication of a level of stress greater than the given value.
Clause 27: The method as claimed in clause 26, wherein the at least one
characteristic of a corresponding situation responsible for the indication of
a level
of stress greater than the given value is selected from a group consisting of
a
situation perceived as new, a situation perceived as unpredictable, a
situation
perceived as threatening for the ego and a situation perceived as inducing a
low
sense of control.
Clause 28: The method as claimed in clause 27, wherein the enabling of
the user to create an action plan associated with the source of the chronic
stress
detected comprises notifying the user for creating an action plan.
Clause 29: The method as claimed in clause 28, wherein the notifying the
user for creating an action plan comprises providing at least one of a visual
signal, an audio signal and a haptic signal.
Clause 30: The method as claimed in any ones of clauses 1 to 29,
wherein the enabling of the user to create an action plan associated with the
source of the chronic stress detected comprises the user providing an
indication
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of a situation generating stress, the user providing at least one
characteristic of a
corresponding situation responsible for generating stress and describing a
strategy for responding to the provided at least one characteristic of a
corresponding situation.
Clause 31: A processing device for helping a user to manage their stress,
the device comprising a display device; a central processing unit; a
communication port for connecting the processing device to another processing
device via a data network; an input output port for enabling the user to
interact
with the processing unit; and a memory unit comprising: instructions for
receiving
over time from the user, using the input output port, a signal indicative of a
level
of stress; instructions for analyzing the received level of stress to detect a
chronic
stress; instructions for, if a chronic stress is detected, informing the user
of the
detection; determining a source for the chronic stress; enabling the user to
create
an action plan associated with the source of the chronic stress detected; and
providing the user with the action plan to thereby enable the user to manage
their
stress.
Clause 32: A computer-readable storage medium for storing computer-
executable instructions which when executed cause a smartphone to perform a
method for helping a user to manage their stress, the method comprising:
receiving over time from the user, using the smartphone, a signal indicative
of a
level of stress; analyzing the received level of stress to detect a chronic
stress; if
a chronic stress is detected, informing the user of the detection; determining
a
source for the chronic stress; enabling the user to create an action plan
associated with the source of the chronic stress detected and providing the
user
with the action plan to thereby enable the user to manage their stress.
Although the above description relates to a specific preferred embodiment
as presently contemplated by the inventor, it will be understood that the
invention
in its broad aspect includes mechanical and functional equivalents of the
elements described herein.
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