The most apparent impact of the Covid-19 virus is on our health. The virus has killed thousands of people worldwide and sickened many more. Hospitals are struggling to cope with the influx of patients, and governments are working to provide the necessary medical supplies and personnel.
The economic impact of the virus is also becoming increasingly apparent. Businesses are shutting down, workers are being laid off, and economies are beginning to contract. The stock market did a nose dive in response to the growing uncertainty.
Covid-19 has had a profound impact on our mental health. The stress of the virus and the ensuing lockdown has resulted in increased anxiety and depression levels. It is particularly true for those who have lost loved ones to the virus or are struggling to cope with the economic impact of the pandemic.
Psychotherapy deals with diagnosing and treating cognitive, emotional, and behavioral disorders. It can be an effective way to make you feel better. This piece will focus on EMDR, one type of psychotherapy.
What Is EMDR?
It is a type of psychotherapy used to treat trauma and other emotional issues. It was developed by Francine Shapiro in the 1980s and is an effective treatment for PTSD (Posttraumatic Stress Disorder).
EMDR is based on the principle that our brains can heal themselves after a traumatic event. However, the emotional trauma we experience sometimes blocks the healing process. EMDR is thought to help unblock this healing process by using bilateral stimulation (eye movements, sounds, or taps) to help the brain process the trauma.
It is usually conducted in 8-12 sessions, although some may need more or less. The therapist will work with you to identify a specific event or memory that is causing you distress. Once this memory is specified, the therapist will help you to process it using bilateral stimulation. It is an effective treatment for PTSD, and it may also be helpful for other emotional issues such as anxiety, depression, and phobias.
How Long Does EMDR Take Effect?
It can last anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes. The number of sessions necessary depends on the severity of the problem, the individual’s life circumstances, and the amount of previous trauma. This therapy can be used on its own as a standard “talking” therapy or adjunctive therapy with a separate therapist.
Generally, EMDR is considered to be a relatively fast-acting therapy. Most people who undergo EMDR therapy report feeling better within a few sessions. However, it is essential to note that EMDR is not a quick fix. For some, it may take several sessions before they start to see any improvement.
It is also worth noting that this psychotherapy is not suitable for everyone. Some people may not respond to the therapy or find it is wrong for their particular situation. If you are considering this, you must talk to a therapist experienced in the treatment to see if it is right for you.
Conclusion
EMDR may be suitable for you if you seek relief from PTSD symptoms or other conditions that may be causing you distress. EMDR can be an effective treatment for many people, but it is not suitable for everyone. If you are considering EMDR, speak with a qualified mental health professional to see if it is right for you.
If you want to make a more aggressive move on healing yourself, you should talk to Sarah J. Person, LCSW-R. I am passionate about my work and have turned the lives around of numerous patients with EMDR. Please allow me to do that for you, so call me not to book an appointment!