This review aims to evaluate the literature supporting the use of heart rate variability (HRV) as an indicator of psychological stress. The study searched databases for relevant publications, focusing on human participants and HRV as an objective measure of psychological stress. The results show that HRV variables change in response to various stressors, with low parasympathetic activity being the most frequently reported factor. Neuroimaging studies suggest that HRV is linked to cortical regions involved in stress appraisal. The review concludes that HRV is impacted by stress and supports its use for assessing psychological health and stress. However, the interpretation of HRV results should consider the overall autonomic context and the patient's medical and psychological history.This review aims to evaluate the literature supporting the use of heart rate variability (HRV) as an indicator of psychological stress. The study searched databases for relevant publications, focusing on human participants and HRV as an objective measure of psychological stress. The results show that HRV variables change in response to various stressors, with low parasympathetic activity being the most frequently reported factor. Neuroimaging studies suggest that HRV is linked to cortical regions involved in stress appraisal. The review concludes that HRV is impacted by stress and supports its use for assessing psychological health and stress. However, the interpretation of HRV results should consider the overall autonomic context and the patient's medical and psychological history.