EFT tapping: what the research says

Small studies suggest tapping may ease anxiety, but most are low quality. Evidence for trauma is limited; none yet for low mood.

What a session is

You tap lightly with your fingertips on set points on the face and body while you focus on a worry or memory and say a short phrase. A practitioner guides you and may teach you to tap on your own.

What the research says

• Worry and anxiety: Small studies found less anxiety, mostly compared with no help. Most were low quality, and more research is needed. Limited evidence · NCCIH, 2024 · J Nerv Ment Dis, 2016 · J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry, 2015
• Stress: One small study of nurses found a single online group session eased stress. Long-term effects are unknown. Limited evidence · NCCIH, 2024
• Trauma and PTSD: Small studies report fewer symptoms but are low quality. UK guidance asks for more research and recommends trauma-focused CBT or EMDR. Limited evidence · NICE, 2018 · NICE, 2018 · Avalia-t for RedETS (Spain's health technology assessment network), 2022
• Low mood: Studies exist but are very low quality. A Spanish health review found no reliable evidence that EFT helps depression. No good evidence yet · Avalia-t for RedETS (Spain's health technology assessment network), 2022
• Sleep, pain, menopause, grief and confidence: Not studied in the sources we use. No good evidence yet

More on each need: Feel calmer · Handle stress better · Lift your mood

Is it safe?

A US health body says EFT is generally considered safe. If worry, low mood or memories of trauma affect your daily life, see a GP: talking therapies such as CBT are usually offered first. NCCIH, 2024 · NHS, 2024 · NHS, 2026

Sessions on Sissoo complement medical care and never replace it. Please don’t stop or change any treatment without talking to your doctor. If you feel very low or think about ending your life, call your local emergency number now.

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Checked 22 October 2026. Next check by April 2027. How we rate the evidence.