EMDR therapy has become an increasingly popular method of treating psychological trauma, but recent studies have revealed that there are some potential dangers of EMDR therapy like some serious side effects associated with this form of therapy.
While EMDR is considered to be a valuable tool in addressing trauma and its aftermath, such as anxiety and depression, it is important to be aware of the possible risks before deciding whether or not to pursue this type of treatment.
This is an informative article which will provide an overview on the potential dangers and physical side effects of EMDR, so you can make an informed decision about your mental health care choices and you should be well aware of what will happen when EMDR goes wrong.
What to expect after Emdr
No doubt many government organizations of different countries like Department of Veterans Affairs, WHO (World Health Organization), National Institute for Health and Care Excellence have approved the treatment of EMDR therapy. But still there are people who say Emdr ruined my life.
As per https://sageclinic.org, after participating in an EMDR session, some people report having dreams that are either realistic or vivid, feeling lightheaded, or having an enhanced sense of awareness. Although these side effects could give you cause for concern, you can rest assured that these effects are absolutely normal.
Can EMDR Therapy Be Harmful?
The dangers associated with EMDR therapy are largely related to the risk of re-traumatization. Because EMDR allows clients to access and process traumatic memories, it can be a difficult experience that may lead to psychological distress or discomfort.
For EMDR to be effective, the therapist must have experience in trauma treatment and must be able to provide a safe, supportive environment for the client to feel comfortable enough to explore memories. If not, it could potentially cause more damage by re-traumatizing them and this can make thing worse.
Additionally, if the therapist is not properly trained or does not follow protocol during treatment sessions, they can put their client at risk of experiencing negative side-effects such as flashbacks or increased anxiety levels.
Furthermore, people who have particularly complex or intense trauma histories may need more specialized treatment, which is not always provided in EMDR therapy.
It is important for the therapist and client to assess whether EMDR therapy is an appropriate treatment plan given their individual needs, as it may not be recommended if they have a history of extreme psychological distress or other medical conditions.
Ultimately, with experienced professionals who are trained in EMDR therapy and provide a safe environment, the risks can be minimized and clients can benefit from this powerful healing technique.
What are the Dangers of EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy has been known to have a variety of positive side effects. However, like any form of treatment, it can also bring about some unwanted side effects which can make things worse.
So if anyone is going to take EMDR sessions in upcoming few days then keep in mind that you may experience following side effects and you can feel weird after EMDR.
#1. Fatigue
People often experience fatigue or tiredness after an EMDR session as the intensity of the treatment can be draining for them. To help manage this, it is recommended that clients follow up their sessions with relaxation activities such as yoga or meditation in order to replenish their energy levels afterwards.
#2. Intrusive Thoughts
Some people find that during and after their EMDR session they may find themselves having intrusive thoughts or memories that they were not expecting to come up during the process. If this happens it is best to discuss it with the therapist so that they can help you process these memories in a safe and effective way.
#3. Anxiety
People who are already suffering from anxiety may find that EMDR therapy can actually increase their anxious feelings as it requires them to focus on and confront difficult aspects of their past or present lives. It is important to ensure that a person is mentally prepared for this before embarking on an EMDR session.
#4. Dizziness/Nausea
During an EMDR session, people may feel dizzy or nauseous due to the intensity of the experience. This usually passes quickly once the person takes some deep breaths and relaxes but if the symptoms persist then it is best to stop the session and take a break.
#5. Disorientation
EMDR sessions can cause some disorientation as the person is asked to focus on difficult memories and feelings throughout the session. If this happens, it is best to stop the session for a few minutes until the person feels more grounded and in control of their thoughts again.
#6. Heightened Emotions
People may find that after an EMDR session they are feeling overwhelmed with emotions that were not present beforehand or feel more strongly about previously unresolved issues. It is important to talk through these with your therapist so that you can process them in a healthy way.
#7. Insomnia
Finally, people may experience difficulty sleeping afterwards due to the intensity of the session and the emotions that have been brought up. If this is a problem then it is best to discuss it with your therapist so that they can help you manage and cope with these feelings in a healthy way.
So guys these are some of the known and highlighted dangers of EMDR therapy. If during therapy, you experience anything then don’t panic. Just tell everything about the current situation to your EMDR therapist, and he/she will handle your situation by providing some remedies.
How long do Emdr side effects last
The side effects of EMDR can vary in length from person to person, means someone can experience mild headache, Dizziness while other won’t notice anything.
There is not fit answer how long the EMDR side effects will last but by analyzing an average cases the side effect may last long from 3 hours to 2 days.
In case if the situation is not well after 2 days then discuss about your current situation with therapist so he/she can prescribe some medicines or medications.
How to Avoid the Dangers of EMDR Therapy
There is no doubt some local and international organizations have considered the EMDR therapy generally safe, secure, and effective. But still some people consider it harmful and there are certain situations where you can further ensure your safety and well-being during the therapy process.
Here are some tips to avoid potential dangers while opting for the EMDR therapy:
- Choose a qualified and experienced therapist: A licensed and properly trained therapist is the best choice. So look for the certifications and credentials that demonstrate their expertise. You can inquire about their training, experience, and success rate with other clients via social media groups.
- Conduct thorough research: Before starting, do your research properly. Checkout some articles, blogs, or official websites about the EMDR and then educate yourself about the process, benefits, and potential risks. Understand the nature of trauma and how EMDR works. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions and have realistic expectations.
- Seek a comprehensive assessment: Having a complete evaluation with your therapist is essential. So talk about your physical and mental health as well as any potential EMDR contraindications. If you have any disorder, don’t hesitate. Your comfort and safety throughout EMDR therapy depend on the results of this evaluation.
- Establish a strong therapeutic alliance: Develop a trusting and open relationship with your EMDR therapist. Clear communication is essential. If you have concerns or questions about the therapy process, discuss them with your therapist. They should be responsive, understanding, and able to address your needs.
- Pace yourself: EMDR therapy can sometimes bring up intense emotions and memories. Ensure that you have the necessary coping skills and support systems in place to manage these experiences. Your therapist should guide you through the process at a pace that feels comfortable for you, allowing you to process and integrate the material gradually.
- Practice self-care: Engage in self-care activities that promote your overall well-being. This may include regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and engaging in relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises. Taking care of yourself outside of therapy sessions can support your emotional resilience.
- Be aware of potential side effects: While EMDR is generally well-tolerated, it can occasionally lead to temporary distress, such as increased anxiety or vivid dreams. Inform your therapist if you experience any significant difficulties during or after the sessions. They can provide guidance and support to help you manage any side effects effectively.
- Have a support system: The support is a great way to discuss about what happens after EMDR therapy. A support is followed by a number of people where they share their experience and educate others about what to do in case if you feel bad after therapy.
Remember that these recommendations are not intended to replace professional guidance. If you have specific concerns or questions about EMDR therapy, you must consult with a trained and experienced mental health professional who can address your unique needs and circumstances.
Final Words
EMDR therapy can be an effective way of treating trauma and other mental health issues but it is important to remember that there may be some unwanted side effects associated with this treatment.
With the latest therapy methods like EMDR music therapy and EMDR light therapy, the dangers of EMDR therapy has been reduced and these new methods helped a lot to cure the memory related issues in less time as compared to traditional approach.
It is always best to talk through any concerns or worries with your therapist before beginning an EMDR session. They will be able to provide tailored advice and support throughout the process in order to ensure the most positive outcome possible.
