Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) tapping is one of the best-known and widely studied energy psychology protocols, which is used around the world as an alternative treatment for emotional distress and physical pain. EFT is also sometimes referred to as psychological acupressure and many believe that it can disrupt the energy fields associated with negative emotions, feelings and sensations.
What Is Clinical EFT Tapping And How Is It Used
Clinical EFT is a structured mind and body approach which combines physical tapping and cognitive exposure-based therapy. Tapping is something that can be used as a self-help tool, however the therapy can go much further in a clinical setting and be used as part of an integrated somatic and psychological approach to treat a variety of conditions, including depression, stress and PTSD [1].
EFT focuses on the body’s energy hot spots or meridian points with a view to restoring the balance of energy that a negative emotion or experience may have disrupted. Whereas fine needles are used in acupuncture, this is replaced by tapping the fingertips on relevant hot spots. This process enables you to tap into your energy and sends clear signals to the areas of the brain that control our stress levels and responses.
When it comes to the emotional freedom technique stress relief, as well as reductions in symptoms of depression and anxiety are all possible. Let’s take a look at what the science says.
What Research Says About EFT Tapping For Depression
Research shows that EFT tapping can help to reduce the symptoms associated with depression and low mood. A meta-analysis of 18 randomised controlled trials [2] revealed that depressive symptom reduction was the primary outcome, with people experiencing moderate depression showing the most significant benefits.
Analysis of the research also reveals that group EFT tapping and shorter, focused treatment programmes are more likely to be effective. While more clinical research into EFT tapping for depression, pain and other concerns is still needed, the data that has emerged so far supports the beneficial outcomes that many patients have already experienced.
Examples Of Clinical Trials On EFT And Depression
The clinical trials that formed part of the meta-analysis referred to previously were undertaken between 2008 and 2023, with numbers of participants ranging between 9 and 384. A range of interventions occurred during these studies, with some offering single EFT tapping sessions and others conducting over 100 sessions. Control groups were also included.
With potential bias, drop-out rates and other factors acknowledged and accounted for, the data still illustrated the overall effectiveness that EFT had on reducing the depressive symptoms experienced by trial participants. Its effects on moderate depressive symptoms were greatest, however those with mild and more severe depression also saw small improvements.
Evidence For EFT Tapping In Pain Relief And Physical Symptoms
As well as treating psychological conditions, there is also promising research into EFT for pain relief. Chronic pain affects millions of people on a global level [3], however this isn’t the only pain condition that EFT tapping can be used to support. Research into the science of EFT tapping is ongoing. It is thought that EFT can help people to retain a sense of control over their symptoms, which can have hugely beneficial and lasting effects on quality of life.
Research indicates that EFT can help to reduce cortisol levels and other stress markers by causing shifts in brain activity and autonomic balance changes that could alter pain perception. This is something that is still being explored, with further studies taking place to understand the full scope of this complementary treatment.
Using EFT Tapping Safely For Depression, Pain, and Stress Relief
With the emotional freedom technique stress relief, pain relief and a reduction in psychological symptoms are all possible, however this is a complementary therapy and not a replacement for existing care plans. Before getting started, we recommend discussing the potential benefits you may experience with your therapist and/or GP. It’s also important to ensure you’re working with a qualified and experienced EFT practitioner, who will ensure that you are always safe and supported during tapping sessions.
FAQs
Is EFT tapping considered an evidence-based treatment for depression and stress relief?
Yes, while it’s important not to view any complementary treatment as a miracle cure, there is a strong body of EFT clinical research evidence which indicates it can have beneficial effects on people experiencing stress and moderate depression.
How does EFT tapping for pain compare with standard medical or psychological treatments?
EFT for pain relief should ideally be viewed as a complementary or additional therapy, which can be used alongside other psychological or medical protocols. EFT clinical research evidence is building, however it shouldn’t be used as a replacement for your existing treatments.
Can I rely on EFT tapping alone for depression, pain or high stress, or should I combine it with other care?
While EFT tapping can be used as a self-help tool with great effect, it shouldn’t be used as a replacement for other therapies and treatments. The science of EFT tapping indicates that it’s a beneficial complementary therapy that can be integrated with other modalities to enhance outcomes for stress, pain and depression.