Ormskirk

This research aims to evaluate whether Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), a brief stress-reduction method, can improve quit rates among smokers who have difficulty quitting through the National Health Service (NHS) smoking cessation program. The study focuses on a challenging group of clients who either relapse repeatedly over two years or struggle to resist cravings despite strong motivation, often due to health problems or other factors. The trial is conducted in an early phase 1 setting with smokers aged 12 to 99 years. Participants will receive Behavioral interventions including EFT, which combines exposure, cognitive restructuring, and somatic stimulation, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which targets negative thoughts about life events and circumstances. These therapies are studied for their potential to help smokers overcome anxiety, cravings, and low confidence related to quitting. The interventions are delivered as part of the NHS stop smoking service at the Central Lancashire NHS Trust. During the study, researchers will monitor the quit rate of participants throughout the treatment period to assess the effectiveness of EFT compared to standard behavioral approaches. Participants' anxiety, cravings, and confidence levels related to quitting will be considered. The total involvement period covers the treatment phase, with no exclusion criteria limiting participation beyond the inclusion requirements. The study aims to provide insights into improving support for smokers facing significant challenges in quitting.