The Effects of Vagus Nerve Stimulation on Stress, Competitive Anxiety, and Depression in Elite Shooters: Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

This study aimed to determine whether vagus nerve stimulation is effective in modulating psychological states such as anxiety, depression, and stress in elite shooters. A total of 18 female elite shooters (aged 18–19 years) were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (n = 9) or a control group (n = 9). The experimental group received vagus nerve stimulation for 30 min per session, once daily, seven days a week, over a period of four weeks. Psychological variables were assessed at three time points: pre-test (baseline), mid-test (2 weeks), and post-test (4 weeks). Two-way repeated measures ANOVA revealed significant group × time interactions for stress (p < 0.01), cognitive anxiety (p < 0.001), somatic anxiety (p < 0.01), confidence (p < 0.001), and depression (p < 0.01). Paired t-tests demonstrated significant reductions in stress, cognitive anxiety, somatic anxiety, and depression, as well as a significant increase in confidence within the experimental group. These findings provide compelling evidence that a 4-week course of vagus nerve stimulation can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while enhancing confidence in elite shooters. Therefore, this intervention may serve as a beneficial strategy for improving mental health in elite shooters.