Healing PTSD with eye movement therapy

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, is a condition that can develop following exposure to a traumatic event. Sufferers experience a range of symptoms, including flashbacks, avoidance behaviour, and emotional numbness. PTSD can impact daily functioning and the ability to enjoy life.

There are several treatments available for PTSD, including cognitive-behavioural therapy, medication and eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR). In this blog, we will explore evidence for eye movement treatment for PTSD.

What is EMDR therapy? 

EMDR consists of a series of eye movements, typically side-to-side or up-and-down, while the patient recalls the traumatic event. It is thought that the eye movements work to re-programme the traumatic memory so that it no longer causes such severe distress.

A growing body of research suggests that it is an effective treatment for PTSD.

Research into EMDR treatment for PTSD

Numerous studies have shown that EMDR treatment can significantly reduce symptoms of PTSD in individuals. A study conducted in 1995 showed that 84% of patients who underwent EMDR treatment saw a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms. Further research conducted over the years highlighted similar results. In a meta-analysis of 22 studies, researchers found EMDR treatment resulted in a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms for patients.

Another study with veterans diagnosed with PTSD found that EMDR reduced their symptoms and depression as well as improved sleep patterns.

The effectiveness of EMDR treatment for PTSD in comparison to other treatments

Studies have shown that EMDR is as effective as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), the standard form of psychological therapy used for PTSD. Moreover, when comparing EMDR to Prozac for treating PTSD, it was found that participants who received EMDR experienced more significant reductions in symptoms in comparison with taking medications.

Is eye movement treatment for PTSD right for me?

EMDR is suitable for anyone who has suffered from military combat, sexual assault, or any other traumatic event If you have PTSD or related symptoms resulting from trauma and are currently experiencing distress, anxiety and sleep problems. It is essential to seek the help of a trained therapist to determine if this type of therapy is appropriate for you.

Since EMDR, there are some models that are considered to be faster and more effective through years of research.

Conclusion

EMDR treatment for PTSD involves eye movements that create a shift in traumatic memory from sensory impressions to verbal descriptions. This results in a reduction of distressing and disturbing symptoms

Remember, you can recover from PTSD, and there are effective treatments available that improve the quality of life.

There is a wealth of science behind treating PTSD with eye movement therapy now.

I have seen remarkable results since using eye movement with clients. In fact, I will go as far as saying it's life-changing for some in such a short space of time even after just one session the PTSD has gone.

I've also found it effective for treating anxiety and low mood conditions.

Although EMDR is the original treatment, now there are several variances on the technique which have shown results to be faster and more effective than the original EMDR treatment from using real client feedback.

I have been lucky enough to train in two of those different styles and witness the amazing results. If you'd like to try EMDR for yourself, get in touch to see how I can help.