What is eye movement desensitization and reprocessing?
EMDR also referred to as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, is a form of mental health counseling. With EMDR, you can treat mental health issues brought on by memories of traumatic experiences in the past. Although its use in treating PTSD is what makes it most well-known, many other conditions are now being treated with it. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a relatively new, unconventional type of psychotherapy. It is gaining popularity, particularly as a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD frequently manifests itself following experiences like violent combat, physical abuse, rape, or car accidents. Despite ongoing research, some healthcare professionals still disagree with one another about EMDR. EMDR initially appears to approach psychological problems in an unusual way. Substances or psychotherapy are not used in it. Instead of using external stimuli, EMDR relies on the patient’s own rapid, regular eye movements. These eye movements mitigate the impact of painful memories of previous traumatic events.
Who requires EMDR therapy?
People with various mental health issues can benefit from EMDR. Adults, teenagers and adolescents of all ages can benefit from this treatment. Some medical professionals are also experts in EMDR in children.
What issues and conditions does EMDR address?
Post-traumatic stress disorder treatment is where EMDR is most commonly used (PTSD). Additionally, it is used by mental healthcare professionals to treat the following conditions. EMDR is typically advised for people who are dealing with overpowering traumatic memories and PTSD symptoms. If you have trouble discussing your trauma with others, including therapists, you might find it especially useful. Although there is currently little evidence to support its effectiveness for treating other mental health issues, some counselors may still suggest it to treat: Depression, Worry and panic attacks, eating problems and disorders caused by drug use.
If a person has a history of trauma and one or more of the following conditions, EMDR may be beneficial to them: depression and bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders and psychosis, addictions to substances and back discomfort
The majority of the time, EMDR seems to be a risk-free treatment for a variety of mental health issues, but further study may provide stronger evidence for its efficacy.
You might be a little doubtful about the claim that moving your eyes while reflecting on a traumatic event can somehow lessen unpleasant memories. Although experts are unsure of the exact reason why the method is effective, some think it is because recalling upsetting memories may feel less emotionally upsetting when you aren’t giving them your full attention. In other words, the bilateral stimulation (BLS) technique used in EMDR gives you something to concentrate on as you access distressing memories and unwanted thoughts. This makes your memory less vibrant and gives you more time to process it without experiencing a strong psychological reaction.
The benefits of EMDR are numerous
- The system is effective – EMDR is successful, according to dozens of studies. It usually works more quickly than other types of therapy. Compared to other types of therapy, EMDR patients typically see results much sooner.
- Less homework is required – Journaling or other types of homework outside of your sessions are typically part of other types of therapy. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) typically only entails writing down any ideas or thoughts you want to discuss at your subsequent session (if and when those thoughts happen).
- It usually involves less anxiety – EMDR focuses on helping you process and get over your trauma. Other techniques ask you to recall unpleasant incidents in detail.
The treatment of traumatic memories using EMDR is a relatively new but highly effective technique. Every age group, including children, has the option. Even though PTSD is the condition for which this therapy is most commonly used, current research indicates that it can also be used to treat many other ailments. This form of therapy can significantly help those who are struggling with upsetting memories of their past, even though it cannot cure all mental health issues. It is advised that you visit your local therapist or make an appointment with an online counselor. Talk to them about this and ask for their assistance if you feel you need to see them more frequently. You should also speak with them if you notice that the symptoms associated with traumatic memories are altering or disrupting other aspects of your life.
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