How EMDR Treats Anxiety

Anxiety is a common mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. This disorder includes feelings of worry, fear, and unease that can interfere with daily activities. Anxiety symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include physical sensations such as increased heart rate and sweating, as well as cognitive symptoms like difficulty concentrating or intrusive thoughts. Treatment options for anxiety include lifestyle changes, medications, therapy, and EMDR.

Recent News About EMDR

Recently, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has been gaining attention in the news for its effectiveness in treating anxiety disorders. Studies have shown that EMDR can reduce levels of traumatic memories and improve overall mental health. 

The American Psychiatric Association officially recognizes EMDR as a form of psychotherapy to treat PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). However, other organizations are beginning to recognize it as an effective treatment for other types of anxiety disorders. With increasing evidence of its efficacy, more people are turning to EMDR as a safe and effective way to manage their symptoms.

What Is EMDR?

EMDR is an evidence-based psychotherapy developed in the late 1980s by Francine Shapiro. It is a non-invasive, integrative treatment that combines elements of cognitive therapy, traditional talk therapy, bodywork, and mindfulness techniques. 

EMDR works to reduce the distress associated with traumatic memories by altering how they are stored in the brain. The goal is for clients to gain insight and understanding about their experience without being overwhelmed by negative emotions or sensations. By addressing past trauma, individuals can learn to cope more effectively with current stressors.

How Does EMDR Help Overall Mental Health Disorder?

EMDR helps alter traumatic memories and how these memories are stored in the brain. EMDR can help individuals gain insight and understanding about their experience without being overwhelmed by negative emotions or sensations. This can lead to improved overall mental health, including reduced levels of anxiety, depression, stress, and PTSD. Additionally, it can help enhance the quality of sleep and concentration as well as increase self-awareness and coping skills.

EMDR and Anxiety: How Does It Help?

EMDR has been shown to be effective in treating anxiety disorders. In addition, EMDR and anxiety treatment can improve overall mental health and decrease anxiety symptoms, such as worry, fear, and unease. Additionally, EMDR can help increase self-awareness and coping skills so individuals can better manage their anxious feelings over time.

What Is the Detailed Process?

EMDR treatment consists of eight phases. During the first phase, the therapist helps the client identify a target memory or event to focus on during the session. In phase two, the therapist works with the client to create an adaptive belief about themselves related to this memory. 

In phases three through six, clients process their memories using eye movements or other bilateral stimulation techniques while engaging in guided imagery and relaxation exercises. This is followed by a closure phase where clients review their progress before entering into a final integration phase where they are encouraged to practice what they have learned outside of therapy sessions.

How Does It Benefit Someone with Mental Health Disorders?

EMDR helps many people to better identify the memories that are causing them distress. Working with their therapists, they will gradually feel more at ease discussing their memories to improve their mental health. In addition, they learn how to reduce their fears, feel more confident in trusting others, are open to social interaction, and experience more restful sleep. 

Benefits of EMDR over Drug Therapy

EMDR can be more effective than drug therapy in reducing systems associated with anxiety and other mental health disorders. In addition, research suggests that EMDR has fewer side effects than medications used to treat anxiety and mental health disorders. Furthermore, people can start to experience the positive effects of EMDR after a few sessions, compared to waiting weeks or even months, to see if drug therapy will be effective. 

Does EMDR Only Help Anxiety?

No, EMDR can be effective in treating a variety of mental health disorders. While it is most commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, it can also be used to address other issues such as depression, PTSD, phobias, and addiction, for example. 

EMDR and Anxiety Treatment Sessions and Timeline

EMDR and anxiety treatment therapy typically consist of eight to 12 sessions, depending on the individual’s needs. During each session, the therapist works with the client to identify a target memory or event to focus on during the session. Each session usually lasts between 45 minutes and an hour, with additional time for assessment and preparation at the beginning of treatment.

The timeline for feeling better after EMDR will vary from person to person. Generally, people begin to notice positive changes in their symptoms soon after beginning treatment. However, a full spectrum of symptoms may take several weeks or months. With each session, individuals should start seeing an improvement in how they cope with anxiety and other mental health disorders.

Overcome Anxiety with Quality Care in Dunwoody, GA

Learn more about EMDR and how it can help you overcome anxiety at Southern Live Oak Wellness in Dunwoody, Georgia. Our experienced staff and compassionate team are here to help.

Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation.