RecruitingEARLY_PHASE1INTERVENTIONAL

The Effect of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) in Smokers Failing a Smoking Cessation Program

This study is investigating a technique called Emotional Freedom Techniques, or EFT, as an additional tool to help people stop smoking. It’s for individuals who have found it particularly difficult to quit smoking through the standard NHS stop smoking service, even if they have tried before. Many people struggle with strong cravings or feel very anxious about trying to quit, which can make it hard for them to succeed. This study wants to find out if EFT can make a real difference for these challenging cases. The goal is to help more people successfully quit smoking, especially those who might otherwise keep returning to the service without lasting success.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

EARLY_PHASE1

Sponsor

Soul Medicine Institute

Enrolment target

Start

20 Sep 2009

Estimated completion

31 Dec 2027

Smoking

What is this study about?

The NHS stop smoking service in Central Lancashire helps many people quit. While it's very successful for most, some people find it incredibly tough to stop smoking, even if they really want to. They might have tried quitting many times before, or find themselves quickly starting to smoke again after a short time.

This study is looking at a technique called Emotional Freedom Techniques, or EFT, to see if it can help these particular individuals. EFT involves gently tapping on specific points on your body while focusing on feelings or cravings. It's thought to help calm strong emotions and urges.

The researchers want to see if adding EFT to ongoing support can help people who have a lot of anxiety about quitting, experience very strong cravings, or don't feel confident they can stay stopped. It's about finding extra support for those who need it most.

Key takeaways

This study explores EFT for hard-to-quit smokers.
It targets those with high anxiety or strong cravings.
The aim is to improve quit rates among challenging cases.
EFT is an additional support, not a replacement for NHS care.
Participation is for people struggling to quit despite other efforts.

Who may be eligible?

This study is designed for people who are currently trying to quit smoking through the NHS stop smoking service and are finding it particularly difficult.

You might be a good fit if you feel very anxious when you try to quit, or if you get such strong cravings that they make it hard to stick to your decision to stop. It's also for those who might not feel very confident in their ability to quit smoking and stay smoke-free.

There aren't any other specific exclusion criteria; if you're an NHS client in the area and fit the description above, you could be eligible. Participants can be aged between 12 and 99, male or female.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 12 and 99 years old?
Are you currently using the NHS stop smoking service?
Do you feel very anxious when you try to quit smoking?
Do powerful cravings often make it hard for you to stop?
Do you have low confidence in your ability to quit and stay smoke-free?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

Information about what taking part involves is not fully detailed in the provided brief summary. Typically, clinical trials like this might involve attending extra sessions where you learn and practice EFT, alongside the usual support from the NHS stop smoking service. You would likely have assessments to check your smoking habits and how you're feeling before, during, and after the study period. The total duration of participation isn't specified but usually ranges from a few weeks to several months, with possible follow-up appointments.

Potential risks and benefits

Potential benefits could include learning new techniques to cope with cravings and anxiety, which might increase your chances of quitting smoking for good. This could lead to significant long-term health improvements. While EFT is generally considered a low-risk therapy, any new intervention may have unforeseen effects, though none are specifically mentioned here. As with all studies, you have the right to withdraw at any time without giving a reason, and your medical care will not be affected.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

NHS Central Lancashire Primary Care Trust
Verified postcode
Ormskirk, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is EFT?

EFT, or Emotional Freedom Techniques, is a method that combines tapping on specific points on your body with focusing on thoughts or feelings. It's sometimes called 'psychological acupressure'.

Who is this study for?

It's for people aged 12 to 99 who are trying to quit smoking with the NHS service but are finding it very hard due to strong cravings, anxiety, or low confidence.

Will I have to stop my regular NHS stop smoking support?

No, this study looks at adding EFT to your existing NHS support, not replacing it.

What happens if I join the study?

You would likely receive EFT sessions in addition to your usual stop smoking support. The study will then check if this extra help makes it easier for you to quit.

Is EFT safe?

EFT is generally considered a gentle approach. The study will monitor any effects and your well-being throughout.

How to find out more

Joan Draper, LPC

joan.draper@btinternet.com 01695 588000 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.