When it comes to supporting mental health, the approach matters as much as the outcome. And in my opinion, the best approaches are humane. That’s why I’m such a strong advocate for emotional freedom techniques (EFT). As a therapeutic modality, it supports mental health with minimal overwhelm, creating a therapeutic environment where healing feels possible not pressured.

REDUCING EMOTIONAL DISTRESS - THE FIRST STEP

One of the primary reasons I view EFT as humane is its focus on reducing emotional distress before tackling deeper issues or problem-solving. When we’re overwhelmed by heightened emotions, it is difficult to think clearly or make meaningful decisions.

EFT helps create a sense of calm by addressing heightened emotions first. This approach acknowledges that we are human beings with feelings that need to be soothed before we can optimally engage in analysis or planning. It’s a gentle process that respects our emotional state, allowing us to move from feeling distressed and into a state where we can process our thoughts more effectively.

A CONTRAST TO TRADITIONAL TALK THERAPY

Many traditional talk therapy approaches begin with analysing problems or diving into strategies for change. While this can be helpful for some, it can also feel overwhelming, especially if we’re already emotionally distressed. Being asked to ‘figure it out’ when emotions are heightened often compounds our stress.

EFT takes a different approach. By addressing heightened emotions first, EFT provides relief and an improved mindset to approach challenges in a less overwhelming way. This shift in focus - from ‘fixing’ to ‘soothing’ - is what makes EFT so humane in my eyes.

LETTING LIMITING BELIEFS GO

Beyond easing immediate emotional discomfort, EFT creates a foundation for deeper change. Many of us hold limiting beliefs - patterns of thought that keep us stuck in cycles of fear, self-doubt or resistance. These beliefs are often deeply rooted and can feel difficult to shift through logic alone.

EFT soothes our nervous systems, creating an emotionally safe space for these beliefs to surface in a non-judgmental way. The process allows us to gently release limiting beliefs and replace them with beliefs that cultivate positive mental health. EFT doesn’t force change - it enables change to emerge naturally, which feels kinder and more sustainable for many people.

WHY THIS MATTERS

To reduce emotional distress prior to expecting ourselves to think clearly and approach our challenges… this is humane. It’s humane to honour ourselves first before seeking to solve problems. It’s human to cultivate healing environments where growth comes naturally, without force. Life can already feel hard enough - humane healing approaches feel relieving not pressuring.

May you honour your humanity when caring for your mental health