Episode Summary
In this special episode of Giving Voice to Depression, hosts Terry McGuire and her sister and former co-host Bridget Shore introduce a simple, science-backed tool that anyone can use to calm their nervous system and ease symptoms of depression or anxiety — EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), also known as tapping.They’re joined by Brad Yates, one of the world’s most recognized EFT practitioners, who guides listeners through a powerful step-by-step tapping session designed specifically for people living with depression.Brad explains how tapping works by lowering cortisol (the body’s main stress hormone), interrupting negative thought loops, and helping people release stuck emotional energy. He walks listeners through the basic tapping points, offers guidance on self-acceptance and gratitude, and reminds us that even small reductions in distress can reignite hope.If you’ve ever felt “stuck” in depression, this episode offers a free, accessible way to start feeling lighter — no special equipment, therapist, or medication required.💬 Primary Topics CoveredWhat EFT Tapping is and how it helps reduce stress and depressionThe science behind tapping: lowering cortisol and calming the nervous systemStep-by-step guide through the tapping points and techniqueWhy acknowledging your negative feelings is essential for healingHow tapping can help shift emotional patterns linked to past traumaThe connection between self-acceptance and emotional recoveryHow small progress (even from a “9” to an “8.75”) builds hopeUsing tapping as a portable, no-cost self-help tool for mental healthEncouragement for practicing regularly for stronger resultsHow to pair tapping with gratitude and mindfulness for long-term relief⏱ Timestamps00:00 – Intro: Why self-help tools like EFT belong in your mental health toolbox01:11 – What EFT Tapping is and how it helps manage depression and anxiety02:23 – The science of tapping: lowering cortisol and reducing stress03:02 – Brad Yates joins to explain how tapping works04:08 – Why tapping provides both emotional and physical relief05:03 – How small stress reductions create momentum for hope06:08 – Step-by-step EFT demonstration: tapping points and phrases09:23 – How tapping helps release old programming and trauma10:13 – Shifting identity from “I have depression” to “I experience depression”10:30 – Guided tapping session for depression and self-acceptance14:21 – Focusing on gratitude, breathing, and small joys17:19 – Checking progress: from low mood to calm awareness17:57 – Why EFT works even for skeptics18:13 – A tool that requires no cost, insurance, or therapist19:13 – Why saying affirmations out loud makes tapping more powerful19:50 – Call to action: try EFT, share your results, and suggest future topicsExplore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.comFacebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/
