Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), also called “tapping,” is a type of alternative therapy. It involves gently tapping pressure points on the body while focusing on a specific issue.
EFT is becoming more popular, and research suggests that EFT may help with:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Chronic pain
- Anxiety
- Depression
The U.K.’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has found enough evidence to support further research into EFT as a potential treatment for trauma.
While EFT is generally considered safe, it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers of EFT, and that’s what this article will explore.
Even though EFT is often safe, you should still take precautions and be aware of potential risks. Informed consent and responsible use are essential when using EFT.
Understanding EFT: Origins, Theory, and Practice
Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) is a type of therapy that combines talking about emotional issues with tapping on certain parts of your body. It’s become pretty popular, but understanding where it comes from and how it’s supposed to work is key to figuring out if it’s right for you.
Origins and Development
EFT started with a therapy called Thought Field Therapy (TFT). Gary Craig took TFT and made it simpler and easier for people to use, and that’s how EFT was born. EFT also borrows ideas from Traditional Chinese Medicine, which talks about energy flowing through your body along pathways called meridians.
The Theory Behind EFT
The main idea behind EFT is that when you have emotional problems, it’s because the energy in your body is out of balance. EFT is supposed to help balance that energy and reduce the emotional charge tied to things like trauma, fears, and stress. It’s like mixing old ideas about the body’s energy with what we know now about how trauma affects the mind.
How EFT Works in Practice
EFT has two main parts: talking and tapping. You talk about what’s bothering you while you tap on specific points on your body with your fingers. The tapping sequence involves focusing on the problem you’re dealing with and tapping on points like your eyebrow, the side of your eye, under your nose, and on your chin. The idea is that tapping these points while thinking about your problem helps to release the emotional blockages and bring your energy back into balance.
Potential Dangers and Side Effects of EFT
EFT is generally considered a safe practice, and most people report positive experiences. However, it’s important to be aware of potential downsides and to approach EFT with realistic expectations and a qualified practitioner.
Emotional Distress and Re-Traumatization
EFT often involves focusing on specific emotional issues, including potentially traumatic memories. This can bring up strong emotions, and some people may find the experience overwhelming. It’s even possible to be re-traumatized if you delve too deeply into a traumatic experience without proper support and guidance. If you have complex PTSD, it’s especially important to work with a therapist who will gently guide you through the process at a pace that feels safe for you.
Physical Sensations and Discomfort
During or after EFT sessions, some people report physical sensations like tingling, numbness, or fatigue, similar to what might be experienced with certain breathing exercises. Some may experience physical discomfort. While these sensations are usually temporary, it’s worth noting that tapping can have a real impact on the body.
Inappropriate or Unqualified Practitioners
This is perhaps the biggest potential danger of EFT. It’s crucial to seek out a qualified and trained practitioner, especially if you’re dealing with trauma, PTSD, or complex PTSD. An unqualified practitioner might use rigid EFT protocols that don’t address your individual needs and experiences, potentially causing more harm than good. Look for someone with proper training and certification in EFT, and who has experience working with your specific concerns.
False Hope and Delayed Treatment
EFT can be a valuable tool, but it shouldn’t be seen as a quick fix or a replacement for other necessary medical or psychological treatments. Relying solely on EFT might delay you from seeking the comprehensive care you need. Always consult with healthcare professionals for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. EFT should be viewed as a complementary therapy to be used alongside other evidence-based treatments.
Over-Simplification of Complex Issues
EFT can sometimes oversimplify complex psychological issues. While focusing on specific emotions and tapping on meridian points can provide temporary relief, it may not address the underlying causes of the problem. Some cases require a more in-depth therapeutic approach than EFT alone can provide. It’s important to consider whether EFT is truly addressing the root of the issue or simply providing a surface-level solution.
Ethical Considerations and Boundaries
As with any therapeutic practice, ethical considerations and professional boundaries are crucial in EFT. There is always a risk of boundary violations or inappropriate relationships with practitioners if things aren’t managed carefully. A qualified practitioner will maintain clear professional boundaries and prioritize your well-being above all else. Be wary of practitioners who are overly familiar, offer unsolicited advice, or make you feel uncomfortable in any way.
Precautions and safeguards when using EFT
If you’re thinking about trying Emotional Freedom Techniques, here are some things to keep in mind to stay safe and get the most out of it:
Get professional guidance
It’s vital to work with an EFT practitioner who has experience and the right qualifications. If you’re dealing with major trauma, don’t rely on self-help tapping alone. Find a professional who can help you through it.
Look for certified practitioners who follow a code of ethics.
Pace yourself and use grounding techniques
Don’t try to do too much too soon. Sessions should be paced so you don’t get overwhelmed. A practitioner should tailor each session to your specific needs and preferences.
Grounding techniques can help you stay present and manage emotional distress. Grounding techniques can be as simple as paying close attention to your feet on the floor, or noticing five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste.
Integrate EFT with other therapies
EFT can be a great addition to other evidence-based therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). It can work well with traditional trauma therapies.
Remember that there are other well-researched treatments for PTSD, like EMDR and CBT.
Self-awareness and monitoring
Pay attention to how you’re feeling, both emotionally and physically, during and after EFT sessions. If you notice any negative effects, adjust your approach accordingly.
Informed consent
It’s important to understand what you’re getting into. Make sure you know the potential benefits and risks of EFT. Get clear and accurate information about what EFT is and what it can and can’t do.
Critically evaluating EFT research and evidence
It’s important to take a look at the research behind EFT to determine whether it’s a good option for you.
Examining the evidence base
There’s a growing body of research that supports the idea that EFT is effective. Many research studies, review articles, and meta-analyses have been published on the topic of energy psychology.
The UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has said the evidence for EFT is strong enough to justify more research into it as a treatment for trauma.
Some studies have shown positive outcomes for PTSD, anxiety, and other conditions. For example, one study showed that EFT was effective in treating PTSD in veterans and active members of the military. Another study found that one hour of EFT tapping resulted in a 24% drop in cortisol levels and improvements in psychological distress.
Limitations and challenges
As with any type of treatment, it’s important to be aware of the limitations of the research on EFT. Some studies have had small sample sizes or methodological weaknesses. There are also concerns about the placebo effect, and more rigorous controlled trials are needed.
Some researchers have pointed out that many EFT studies are not randomized or blinded, which could lead to bias. Other researchers argue that the positive results seen in EFT studies could be due to other factors, such as the therapeutic relationship between the practitioner and the client.
Interpreting research findings
It’s important to interpret research findings critically and in a balanced way. EFT may not be effective for everyone, and individual results may vary.
EFT is generally considered a complementary therapy, which means that it’s often used in conjunction with other treatments. If you’re considering EFT, talk to your doctor or a qualified mental health professional to see if it’s right for you. It’s important to remember that more research is needed to fully understand the potential risks and benefits of EFT.
Who should exercise caution with EFT?
While EFT can be a helpful tool for many, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. There are definitely situations where you should proceed with caution or avoid EFT altogether.
People with severe mental health conditions
EFT shouldn’t be your primary treatment if you’re dealing with psychosis or severe depression. These conditions require comprehensive psychiatric care. Think of EFT as a possible complementary therapy, not a replacement for established treatments.
People with a history of trauma
If you have a history of severe trauma, especially if you’re not currently in therapy, be very careful with EFT. Working with a trauma-informed practitioner is key to avoiding re-traumatization. You don’t want to inadvertently trigger painful memories without the proper support.
People with dissociative disorders
EFT might not be the best choice for people with dissociative disorders. Focusing on traumatic memories can sometimes worsen dissociation.
Children and adolescents
Using EFT with children and adolescents requires proper training and supervision. Kids may not fully grasp the emotions that come up during EFT sessions or know how to process them effectively. It’s crucial to have a qualified professional guide them through the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I feel worse after EFT tapping?
It’s not uncommon to feel worse initially after EFT tapping. This can happen because tapping can bring suppressed emotions to the surface. This temporary increase in emotional discomfort is often a sign that you’re processing deeply held feelings. It’s crucial to practice self-compassion and consider working with a qualified EFT practitioner to navigate intense emotions safely.
What are the disadvantages of EFT therapy?
One disadvantage is that EFT is sometimes presented with overly enthusiastic claims, which can be misleading. Also, the lack of rigorous, large-scale studies makes it difficult to definitively establish its effectiveness for all conditions. Additionally, EFT may not be suitable as a standalone treatment for severe mental health disorders and should be used in conjunction with other evidence-based therapies.
What are the negative effects of EFT?
While generally considered safe, EFT can bring up intense emotions, potentially causing temporary distress. In rare cases, individuals may experience abreactions, which are intense emotional releases. It’s essential to practice EFT in a safe and supportive environment, especially when addressing traumatic experiences. If you have a history of trauma or severe mental health issues, consulting with a mental health professional before trying EFT is crucial.
Why should EFT tapping be avoided?
EFT tapping should be approached with caution, especially if you have a history of trauma, severe anxiety, or other mental health conditions. It’s also important to be wary of practitioners who make exaggerated claims about EFT’s effectiveness or who lack proper training and credentials. In such cases, EFT may not be beneficial and could potentially be harmful. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if EFT is right for you and to ensure you receive appropriate care.
Putting it all together
EFT, or emotional freedom techniques, can be a great way to manage, and can even be paired with something like calm mind and body gummies to help with:
- stress
- anxiety
- trauma
It’s a complementary therapy, meaning it’s best when used alongside traditional treatments, and it may offer some benefits for your emotional and psychological well-being.
However, it’s important to be aware of the possible dangers and side effects of EFT. You should take precautions and use safeguards to keep the risks to a minimum.
Make sure you’re making an informed decision about whether to try EFT. Responsible use of EFT includes:
- seeking guidance from a qualified professional
- using it in combination with other therapies
- watching for any negative effects
Keep a balanced view of EFT. It has potential, but it also has limits. Stay aware of both, and you’ll be more likely to get the most out of this technique.