EMDR as a Treatment for Long-Term Depression
Written by: Wood, E., Ricketts, T., & Parry, G. (2018)
Edited by: EMDR-Zone Editorial Team
Content Warning: Please be advised, if you or someone you love is having suicidal thoughts, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 898. Free, private support is available 24/7. Please also see our Get Help Now page for more immediate resources.
Dive into the latest research on EMDR, revealing its superior effectiveness in treating depression.
Introduction to EMDR and its Potential for Long-term Depression
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic approach that was initially conceptualized and developed for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Over the years, the therapeutic community has recognized the intricate connection between traumatic events and the onset or exacerbation of depression. This has led to a burgeoning interest in understanding and exploring the potential of EMDR in addressing long-term depression. The primary objective of this study was to delve deeper into this potential, determining not only the feasibility of EMDR for such cases but also its acceptability among patients and its efficacy in symptom reduction.
The Prevalence and Challenges of Long-term Depression
Depression, when it becomes chronic or long-term, can manifest in two primary forms: recurrent major depressive disorder (characterized by experiencing two or more episodes) and persistent depressive disorder (which lasts for a duration exceeding 2 years). The challenge with long-term depression is its resistance to traditional treatments. Current therapeutic interventions, including pharmacological treatments and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), often yield a response rate that is less than 50%. This underscores the pressing need for alternative or complementary treatment modalities.
EMDR's Theoretical Foundation and its Connection to Trauma
At the heart of EMDR is the adaptive information processing model (AIP). This model suggests that pathologies arise from problematic memories associated with traumatic or distressing events. It's crucial to note that these memories aren't solely limited to cases of PTSD. Depression, especially when chronic, often has roots in negative life events. Moreover, individuals who suffer from chronic depression frequently report higher instances of early life adversities. This makes childhood trauma a significant and undeniable risk factor for depression in later stages of life.
Study Design and Methodology
The researchers adopted a meticulous approach by employing a single-case experimental design with replications. This design was chosen to robustly test the feasibility and effectiveness of EMDR in addressing long-term depression. A total of thirteen participants, all of whom had been diagnosed with recurrent and/or long-term depression, were enrolled in the study. These participants underwent the standard protocol EMDR for a maximum of 20 sessions. To gauge the effectiveness, depression levels were meticulously measured before and after the treatment. Additionally, participants were asked to provide ratings for their daily mood, offering a comprehensive view of their emotional well-being.
Results: EMDR's Effectiveness in Treating Depression
The results were promising. Out of the thirteen participants, eight were actively engaged with the treatment. Out of these, seven showcased clinically significant and statistically reliable improvements as per the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression. Most notably, EMDR emerged as a Feasible Treatment for Long-term Depression: The post-treatment data was particularly illuminating, indicating a substantial reduction in depression scores by approximately 50%. This finding is pivotal as it underscores EMDR's potential as a potent treatment modality for recurrent and/or long-term depression.
Implications and Conclusions
The findings of this study have profound implications for the therapeutic community. They suggest that EMDR might not just be an alternative but a potentially superior treatment option for depression, especially for those individuals who haven't found relief with first-line therapeutic approaches like CBT. Given the trauma-focused nature of EMDR, it could be especially beneficial for individuals with a history of trauma, offering them a path to healing. However, as with all scientific endeavors, further research is imperative to firmly establish EMDR's efficacy and effectiveness for long-term depression.
For more detailed information, here is the link for the original article:
https://bpspsychub.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/papt.12145
.webp)