Therapeutic Applications of Smart Textiles for Stress Relief and Mental Well-Being in Nigeria: An Exploratory Study of Design, Development, and User Experience

Grace Chizoma Onyebuchi-Igbokwe¹*, Jovita Charles Ogu², Nwakwasi Rachel Nkeonyere³, Chizoba Anderson Egornu¹, Felicia Chinyere Okwulehie⁴, Bertha Oluchi Uzowuihe⁵, Nnamdi Chibuzo Adibe¹ and Edem Peters^6
1Department of Fine and Applied Arts, Alvan Ikoku University of Education, Owerri, Nigeria
²Department of Fine & Applied Arts, Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education Owerri Nigeria
³Department of Agricultural Extension, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria
⁴Department of Home Economics and Hospitality Management Education, Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Educaton, Owerri, Nigeria
⁵Department of Languages and Humanities, Alvan Ikoku University of Education, Owerri, Nigeria
⁶Department of Fine Arts and Design, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria
*Corresponding Author: Grace Chizoma Onyebuchi-Igbokwe, Department of Fine and Applied Arts, Alvan Ikoku University of Education, Owerri, Nigeria.

Published: April 05, 2025

DOI: 10.55162/MCMS.08.280

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Abstract  

By combining technology and fabric for therapeutic purposes, smart textiles have become a cutting-edge approach to treating stress and mental health issues. The design, development, and user experience of smart textiles in Nigeria are examined in this study, with an emphasis on how well they relieve stress and promote mental health. The study uses an experimental methodology to examine the potential therapeutic advantages of interactive textiles with temperature control, biofeedback sensors, and aromatherapy features. Surveys and experimental trials were used to gather data, and the physiological and psychological reactions of users to smart fabrics were examined. To assess the effect of smart textiles on stress reduction and general mental health, statistical analyses such as regression analysis and ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) were carried out using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences). Although the quantitative results indicated a possible relationship between the use of smart textiles and stress reduction, the statistical significance was not clear. Qualitative input, however, showed strong perceived benefits and user approval. In order to maximize the design and accessibility of smart textiles as a supplemental stress-relieving intervention in Nigeria, the study suggested more research, the creation of policies, and cooperation amongst stakeholders. It was anticipated that the results would add to the expanding corpus of research on digital health interventions, highlighting the promise of smart textiles as an approachable and culturally appropriate way to manage mental health in Nigeria.

Keywords: Therapeutic Application; Smart Textiles; Stress Relief; Mental Well-being; Aromatherapy; Biofeedback Sensors

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