Exploring EMDR in Addressing Substance Abuse: A Promising Approach?
EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a unique type of psychotherapy that aims to help individuals reprocess traumatic memories. This therapy has shown promising results in addressing the causative factors of trauma symptoms, such as intrusive memories, anxiety, and physical pain.
Trauma, particularly those from childhood and adolescence, can increase the likelihood of substance misuse and Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Examples of traumas include violence, abuse, neglect, family member suicide, exposure to violence, incarcerated family members, and divorced or separated parents. Traumas experienced in adulthood, such as those experienced by military personnel, can also contribute to substance misuse.
According to the US Department of Veterans Affairs, between 12% to 30% of combat veterans reported PTSD after serving, and 27% of veterans living with PTSD have SUD. This highlights the urgent need for effective treatments for trauma and SUD.
EMDR may hold potential in this regard. A small study found that an EMDR intervention significantly reduced the severity of intrusive memories, avoidance behavior, and hyperarousal in PTSD. Furthermore, a 2017 research review examined existing studies on EMDR for SUD and addiction, and findings indicate that EMDR can improve addictions such as alcohol, gambling, internet, sex, opioids, tobacco, and gamma-hydroxybutyric acid.
During EMDR therapy, side effects such as vivid dreams, re-emergence of distressing memories, feeling vulnerable, emotional fluctuations, nausea, headache, or lightheadedness may occur. However, these side effects are usually temporary and manageable.
EMDR therapy consists of an 8-step process: History, Preparation, Assessment, Desensitization, Installation, Body scan, Closure, and Reevaluation. This structured approach allows individuals to work through their traumas in a systematic and supportive manner.
EMDR therapy is often employed in drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities due to its potential to address underlying trauma symptoms contributing to substance use. To find an EMDR therapist, visit the official EMDR International Association website at https://www.emdr.com/SEARCH/index.php. For more information about EMDR, read the American Psychological Association's guide on EMDR for PTSD treatment at https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/treatments/eye-movement-reprocessing.
While the effectiveness of EMDR for SUD and addiction is still under investigation, research supports its effectiveness for trauma symptoms. EMDR may help cope with traumas and potentially improve substance use disorder. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and to fully understand the potential benefits and limitations of EMDR for SUD and addiction.
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