Phobias are intense, irrational fears of certain objects, activities or situations that pose little or no threat in reality. People with phobias experience strong feelings of anxiety, panic and fear when exposed to the source of their phobia. This can severely impact their ability to function normally. Fortunately, there are effective therapies that can help people overcome phobias. One such therapy is Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), commonly known as ‘tapping’.
What is EFT and How Does it Work?
EFT is an evidence-based self-help technique that involves tapping on acupressure points on the face and body while focusing on the fear or negative emotion. Developed in the 1990s, EFT combines elements of cognitive therapy and acupuncture without the use of needles.
During an EFT session, the person tunes into the fear by verbalising it. The EFT therapist then guides them to tap on specific meridian end points while repeating a statement that acknowledges and accepts the fear. The tapping helps calm the amygdala, the part of the brain responsible for the fear response. Over several sessions, the distress around the phobia diminishes or disappears completely.
EFT effectively reduces anxiety, stress, fear and limiting beliefs. Research shows it can help with phobias of spiders, heights, flying, needles, dental procedures and more. The EFT practitioner’s empathy, guidance and support is also an important part of the healing process.
EFT for Specific Phobias
Let’s understand how EFT can help overcome some common phobias:
Fear of Flying
People with a fear of flying experience anticipatory anxiety with thoughts of plane crashes, turbulence and entrapment. EFT can help them release this anxiety and replace it with calmness about future flights. Tapping on acupoints while verbalising fears allows blocked energies to flow and negative emotions to dissipate.
Arachnophobia (Fear of Spiders)
EFT helps reduce the autonomic arousal, restless energy and anxious thoughts associated with arachnophobia. Calling the phobia directly by name while tapping can help desensitise the person to their fear. EFT empowers them to face and overcome their fear of spiders.
Trypanophobia (Fear of Needles)
Trypanophobia makes it difficult to get injections, give blood or undergo medical procedures involving needles. EFT taps away the fear and anxiety around needles. It’s been shown to calm people down before surgery, MRI scans, blood tests, vaccinations and other medical procedures.
The Benefits of EFT for Phobias
EFT offers several advantages for overcoming phobias:
- Drug-free approach with no side effects
- Portable technique that can be done anywhere at any time
- Fast results, often in just a few sessions
- Long-lasting effects when done correctly
- Cost-effective compared to long-term therapy
- Teaches self-help skills to manage anxiety
- Suitable for adults and children
- Compatible with other treatments
Trying EFT for Your Phobia
If you suffer from a phobia like fear of public speaking, claustrophobia or agoraphobia, consider giving EFT a try. Look for a certified EFT therapist in London who can guide you through the process safely and effectively.
While EFT offers hope for overcoming many phobias completely, some may require additional treatment methods. Still, EFT is worth exploring either on its own or in conjunction with therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy or exposure therapy. With professional help, you can tap your way to a life free from the grip of phobic fears.
