Toll-Free: (888) 234-5758
Phone: (954) 523-3870
June 17, 2010 - Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been affecting soldiers since before it was known as PTSD. With the sheer volume of veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan suffering from PTSD, an effective treatment is necessary. There are currently numerous research programs out there searching for new, effective methods of treating PTSD, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
Research now suggests that specific stimulation to people's brains suffering from PTSD may relieve their symptoms. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) works by utilizing:
To date it is unknown how these stimuli work to relieve stress in those suffering from PTSD. Nevertheless, multiple studies and health professionals have reported high success rates. During sessions in which EMDR is used, patients' anxiety decreases very quickly.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is rapidly adopting the treatment due to the large amounts of PTSD cases in veterans returning from the current wars. EMDR has repeatedly produced very visible results. It is believed EMDR can resolve all of a patient's PTSD related symptoms. Of course all this hinges on the degree of PTSD from which the veteran is suffering.
Some studies have shown after only 12 sessions, 78% of veterans no longer meet the criteria to be considered suffering from PTSD. The EMDR website, speaking only of civilian patients, increases that number to 77-90% after 3-7 sessions.
The EMDR therapy identifies traumatic experiences and memories, eliminates the patient's sensitivity to them, and trades the patient's disturbing connection for a positive one. During the session the patient is given visual, auditory, or tactile stimulation. If the treatment works, the patient will have no distress when thinking about the memory and as a result, no physical distress.
As of 2004, the Department of Defense (DoD) lists EMDR as 1 of 4 recommended VA treatments for PTSD. Because of the nature of the EMDR therapy, multiple memories can be addressed in single sessions. For veterans returning from multiple deployments, this type of therapy can be a life saver.
Soldiers can return home with a number of conditions, injuries, and aggravated preexisting conditions. If you believe you have a service-connected physical or psychological injury you may be entitled to Veterans’ Disability Compensation.
At LaVan and Neidenberg, we are determined to secure veterans their rightful disability compensation and disability rating. We wrote this book for you! In it you will find valuable tips on how to navigate the claims process and avoid common pitfalls. Request your FREE copy today!
Or, complete our short contact form or call us directly at 1.888.234.5758 to schedule your FREE case evaluation.
Post a Comment to "Taking the Stress Out of PTSD"
To reply to this message, enter your reply in the box labeled "Message", hit "Post Message."