Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects millions of people worldwide. The impact of trauma can be overwhelming, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems. Along with medication and therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a widely known and effective treatment for PTSD. EMDR has proven to be effective in treating various mental health disorders, including anxiety, addiction, depression, and phobias. If you are wondering what EMDR is and how it works, keep reading.
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) was developed in the 1980s by a California-based psychologist, Francine Shapiro. It is a short-term psychotherapy that focuses on reprocessing traumatic memories that impact mental health. During EMDR sessions, the patient is guided through the emotional trauma while following a specific visual or auditory sequence. The goal of EMDR is to help the patient desensitize the traumatic memory, leading to a reduction of anxiety and other symptoms.
How Does EMDR Work?
During an EMDR session, the patient is encouraged to bring up the traumatic memory that has caused distress. After identifying the traumatic memories, the patient is asked to focus on a specific thought, image, or emotion while following a specific eye movement sequence. The eye movement sequence is used to stimulate the brain to process the traumatic memory, allowing the patient to release any emotions associated with the event. This process is repeated until the traumatic memory has been reprocessed, and the patient feels less distress.
What to Expect During EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy can take several sessions to complete, depending on the severity of the traumatic experience. During a session, the therapist will guide you through the process. You may be asked to describe the traumatic event, feelings, and thoughts associated with the memory. The therapist will then guide you through the eye movement sequence, stimulating your brain to reprocess the traumatic memory. EMDR therapy may also include talk therapy, relaxation techniques, and mindfulness exercises.
EMDR has proven to be an effective therapy for individuals experiencing trauma and other mental health disorders. If you are considering EMDR therapy, it is essential to seek a licensed therapist with EMDR training and experience in the treatment. If you have any doubts about your eligibility for EMDR, don’t hesitate to consult a mental health professional. Remember, healing is a journey, and it takes time and effort to reach recovery.