Tapping otherwise known as the emotional freedom technique, (EFT), is gaining popularity everywhere after its effectiveness in treating a number of conditions was proved by science. The technique, which involves tapping acupressure points on the head and hands, is showing promise as an effective form of therapy for anxiety, depression and anger.

Researchers at Staffordshire University are leading research into the effectiveness of EFT in the United Kingdom.

Professor Tony Stewart, who led a trial of the treatment in the Birmingham area, said in an interview:

“EFT is a new and emerging therapy that can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions. Patients gently tap with their fingertips on acupressure points, mainly on the head and hands, and relate this to the voicing of specific statements. A growing number of studies suggest EFT is an effective and safe treatment, and with the predicted sharp increase in the demand for mental health services – and a corresponding decrease in NHS resources – we feel that the use of EFT should now be extended.”

Him and his researchers studied 39 patients during the trial and say that most improved significantly as a result of the treatment.

Dr Ian Walton, GP and mental health lead for Sandwell and West Birmingham Clinical Commissioning Group, stated:

“The effective use of EFT demonstrated in this study has not only influenced counselors and therapists in Sandwell to be trained to use this method of treatment, but also local mental health charities are seeing the value in being trained to use EFT in the work that they do.”

Reference: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/