If you’ve experienced a challenging or traumatic event, you might find yourself grappling with uncomfortable symptoms that interfere with your daily life. Traumatic events can take many forms, and their impact varies from person to person, this blog guides you through what EMDR Therapy is and how it can help.
“Trauma touches our lives in many different ways; a serious accident, a physical assault, war, a natural disaster, sexual assault or abuse. It might affect you or those you love. These events can be traumatic as they cause a threat to your safety and/or the safety of others.”– Beyond Blue
While our reactions to trauma differ, there are common symptoms that can emerge. Recognising these early signs is vital before they take a deeper toll. It’s important to note that experiencing some of these symptoms immediately after a trauma is normal. However, if these reactions persist for months or leave you feeling stuck, it may be time to seek support.
Key Signs and Symptoms of Trauma
Physical Symptoms
Trauma doesn’t only affect our mind—it can manifest physically too. Some common physical signs include:
- Persistent fatigue, even after resting.
- Frequent headaches or unexplained body pain.
- Trouble falling asleep or experiencing restless sleep.
- Unusual physical sensations, such as tingling or numbness.
Emotional Changes
Trauma can cause a significant shift in how we feel and process emotions:
- Being hypersensitive to emotional content like movies or songs.
- Feeling disconnected from your emotions or your body.
- Experiencing a sense of helplessness or hopelessness about the future.
- Frequent anger or irritation with others.
- Cynicism or negative assumptions about people and situations.
- Intrusive thoughts or images related to the traumatic event.
Behavioural Changes
Trauma may also alter the way we behave, interact, and approach life:
- Avoiding work, social events, or other commitments.
- Losing interest in hobbies or activities that once brought joy.
- Struggling with relationships, either by isolating yourself or avoiding others.
- Overworking or staying busy to avoid thinking about the trauma.
- Feeling like small talk or everyday experiences are meaningless.
- Becoming overly cautious about the health and safety of loved ones.
How Trauma Affects the Brain
When a traumatic event occurs, it can disrupt the brain’s natural processing systems. Normally, during sleep, particularly in Rapid Eye Movement (REM) cycles, the brain sorts and files memories, moving them from short-term to long-term memory. However, trauma can derail this process.
Instead of being stored as a neutral memory, traumatic experiences are often left “raw” in the nervous system, complete with the sights, sounds, and sensations from the event. This is why reminders of trauma can feel like reliving the event rather than recalling it.
What is EMDR, and How Can it Help?
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a scientifically validated therapy designed to help the brain process and reframe traumatic memories. By using bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements), EMDR mimics the natural REM process, allowing the brain to “reboot” its healing process.
Through EMDR, traumatic memories are transferred from a raw, emotionally charged state to a neutral, long-term memory. This shift enables individuals to remember the event without the physical or emotional distress it once caused.
How Does EMDR Work?
- The therapist guides you through recalling the traumatic memory while simultaneously using techniques like tapping or following a moving object with your eyes.
- This bilateral stimulation helps the brain process the memory in a way that reduces its intensity.
- Over time, the memory becomes less distressing, allowing you to move forward with your life.
You can find out more about the EMDR process on the BACPWebsite.
Research Supporting EMDR
Numerous studies have highlighted the effectiveness of EMDR for trauma. A meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Psychology found that EMDR significantly reduces symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), often in fewer sessions compared to traditional therapies. The World Health Organisation (WHO) also recommends EMDR as a first-line treatment for trauma-related conditions.
Is EMDR Right for You?
If you’ve been struggling with the effects of trauma, EMDR might be an option to explore. Whether you prefer in-person sessions or online therapy, EMDR can be tailored to fit your needs, either on a session-by-session basis or as an intensive block of treatment.
If this resonates with you, don’t hesitate to reach out to me for more information or to book an initial consultation. Healing is possible, and with the right support, you can regain control over your life.
Take the first step toward healing today
