Evidence-based Therapeutic Approaches for PTSD & Post-trauma Stress 

Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing

Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence based psychotherapeutic approach that aims to detach traumatic event from the emotions they are still attached to.

During a session of EMDR a distressing memory or part of, is brought to mind while the focus of the eyes moves from side to side or diagonally. One theory behind EMDR is that it stimulates the same brain mechanisms as rapid eye movement (REM), the type of sleep that allows the brain to process and store waking experiences.

During a trauma event, such as an accident, acute illness, or injury, the brain freezes, and the memory continues to be highly associated with negative emotions felt at the time even though the threat or danger is no longer present. Because of this, the event can be recalled and relived in great detail without needing the trigger to be present i.e., the memory and emotions of fear, hurt, or helplessness that accompany it get stuck in time. These emotions can be relived day or night causing hyperarousal in the present time.

To prevent reexperiencing these symptoms and hyperarousal, avoidance of internal or external stimuli that triggers the memories and associated feelings becomes common place to cope with daily living.

Other therapeutic approaches available for PTSD & post-trauma stress

Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing (EMDR)

Cognitive Processing Therapy