EFT for Bipolar Disorder

EFT for Bipolar Disorder? I'm often asked if you can treat Bipolar Disorder with EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques). The answer, so far, is "yes and no."

What is EFT?

EFT, sometimes referred to as "tapping," or "energy tapping," is a form of Energy Psychology. Based on the ancient principles of acupuncture, EFT balances the body's energy system by tapping on your own acupressure points, alone, or with the guidance of a therapist or coach.

What EFT Can and Cannot Do

EFT Tapping can improve a wide array of conditions - both emotional and even physical. In the case of Bipolar Disorder however, results are less clear. Generally, EFT works phenomenally well for most cases of anxiety, trauma, phobias and negative thought patterns. It works extremely well also for most cases of depression, and is sometimes helpful for conditions like chronic fatigue and chronic pain, especially when there is an underlying or contributing emotional factor, such as unresolved trauma or loss.

But for conditions like Bipolar Disorder that have a strong neurological component, results with EFT are mixed. In my experience, with my own Bipolar clients, EFT does not halt the progression of a manic episode - once it has reached a certain level. But EFT can be effective in preventing a manic episode, when the early signs are recognized. The same is true for an impending depressive episode in many cases. Intervening with EFT when the first symptoms appear - negative thinking, decreased energy and motivation, feelings of guilt or shame, decreased concentration - can be extremely effective for turning things around and stabilizing the mood.

However, once a depressive episode gets to a severe level - very distorted thinking, slowed thought and speech, lethargy, suicidal thinking, inability to identify or verbalize feelings - it then becomes much harder to benefit from EFT.

In extreme states of mania or depression (or mixed episodes), psychotic symptoms may be present, such as delusions, paranoia and auditory or visual hallucinations. EFT is generally not very effective in treating psychosis.

Can EFT be used by itself to treat Bipolar Disorder?

With or without the use of EFT, I always advocate a well-rounded holistic approach to treatment. EFT can be one of the most useful therapeutic and self-help techniques for maintaining mood stability, and eliminating the many potential stressors that can trigger or worsen the condition. But EFT is not a cure for Bipolar Disorder.

I advise the use of EFT for Bipolar Disorder as an important component of treatment. EFT is completely safe and compatible with all other aspects of treatment and self-care.

EFT can be used as an added component of treatment, in addition to a healthy, therapeutic diet, healthy lifestyle, disciplined sleep schedule, psychotherapy and group therapy, medical treatment by an MD or ND (Naturopathic Doctor), exercise, and mind-body practices such as yoga, meditation or Tai Chi.

Reasons to use EFT for Bipolar Disorder:

• Quickly eliminate emotional upsets before they spiral out of control.
• Eliminate overwhelming feelings of anger or rage when triggered.
• Eliminate feelings of guilt, shame, helplessness, hopelessness and powerlessness.
• Address relationship issues to improve stability and strengthen your support system.
• Reduce or eliminate the Anxiety that is often present along with other Bipolar symptoms.
• Resolve old emotional traumas so that they no longer trigger overwhelming emotions that can lead to Bipolar episodes.
• Raise your awareness of denied or repressed emotions that can threaten your stability, and clear them out.
• Empower yourself to no longer be a victim of your moods.
• Change the distorted and negative thought patterns that can erode your self-esteem, and lead to a downward spiral of depression and despair.
• Improve your overall feelings of peace, balance and optimism.
• Increase your awareness of your own subtle energy and fine tune your ability to monitor and maintain a stable mood. Learn more about Bipolar Symptoms before using EFT for Bipolar Disorder
  
  
  

Call Ben Schwarcz, MFT to learn more about the benefits of EFT for Bipolar Disorder. To set up an appointment, please call, or complete the Inquiry Form below.

707-326-5566

Disclaimer:

This information is not intended to replace your medical or mental health treatment. Please consult your own doctor and mental health practitioner if you have concerns about using EFT for Bipolar treatment.