How Does Trauma Develop?
Trauma occurs when an individual experiences an event that triggers extremely high levels of stress hormones. During this process, the brain struggles to process the memory effectively. Instead of being stored in the hippocampus, which helps with contextual recall, the memory may become “stuck” in the amygdala. This can result in the memory being recalled through intense emotional responses or sensory experiences, often referred to as being “triggered.” This response is typically unconscious and may seem disproportionate to the current situation.
How Can You Tell If You’re Traumatized?
Trauma is highly individual, and what constitutes a traumatic event varies from person to person. Factors such as the age at which the event occurred, the proximity to the event, and the presence of protective factors (like supportive caregivers or access to therapy) play crucial roles. A significant traumatic event or repeated trauma can deeply affect an individual, impairing their daily life and causing distress to themselves and others. It’s essential to recognize that trauma is relative; even if an event seems minor compared to others’ experiences, it can still have a profound impact.
What Can You Do If You’ve Experienced Trauma?
One effective treatment for trauma is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy. Research shows that EMDR resolves PTSD symptoms effectively in 80%-94% of single-event trauma cases and 77% of multiple-event trauma cases (complex PTSD). Additionally, 89% of individuals maintained improvements after five years. EMDR is endorsed by the American Psychiatric Association, the World Health Organization, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as a leading treatment for PTSD.
Be sure to check the credentials of any provider offering EMDR, they should have received training and certification from an internationally recognized organization such as EMDRIA.
Who Should Consider EMDR?
EMDR is useful for treating PTSD, grief, social anxiety, specific phobias, and depression. Ideal candidates for EMDR can manage stress and anxiety without endangering themselves or others, remain present and aware during sessions, tolerate temporary worsening of symptoms, and have coping resources in place.
Who Might Not Be Suitable for EMDR?
EMDR may not be appropriate for individuals with bipolar disorder or certain personality disorders. Those actively abusing alcohol or drugs should avoid EMDR until their substance use is addressed. People who struggle to access strong emotions or have low distress tolerance may need to develop these skills before beginning EMDR.
What to Expect from EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy involves eight phases: History Taking, Preparation, Assessment, Desensitization, Installation, Body Scan, Closure, and Re-evaluation. Your therapist will initially focus on building rapport, understanding your history, and ensuring you have the necessary coping skills. Assessments for dissociation and emotional regulation skills will be conducted. A solid foundation is crucial before starting the processing phases of EMDR.
Conclusion
EMDR is thought to induce fundamental changes in brain circuitry, similar to REM sleep, facilitating the effective processing and integration of traumatic memories. This helps individuals incorporate these memories into their broader life experience.
- Robert Stickgold, Ph.D., Harvard Medical School
If you’re interested in trying EMDR, contact Parkway Customer Service to schedule an appt with an EMDR trained clinician.
