Depression is the Leading Cause of Disability Worldwide
Feelings of worthlessness. Lack of enjoyment in life. Hopelessness. Lack of motivation. Difficulty falling or staying asleep. Difficulty concentrating. Sleeping too much.
Depression is a pervasive, potentially destabilizing condition that impacts millions worldwide. Depression is now the leading cause of disability worldwide. It is predicted by the World Health Organization to be the leading cause of disease by 2030.
Traditional treatments for depression often include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication, but not all individuals respond fully to these methods. One increasingly popular treatment for depression is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Initially developed for trauma, EMDR has gained recognition as a treatment for depression, particularly in cases where trauma or negative life experiences contribute to the condition. This blog explores the benefits of EMDR for depression, supported by research findings.
Understanding EMDR
EMDR is a treatment that aims to reduce the emotional impact of distressing memories or future fears and anxieties. The process involves recalling traumatic memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, or movements from side to side, usually through guided eye movements. This combination helps the brain reprocess distressing memories and reduce their emotional intensity.
The Link Between Trauma and Depression
To understand how EMDR can benefit those with depression, it’s essential to recognize the connection between trauma and depressive symptoms. Studies have shown that individuals with a history of trauma are more likely to develop depression. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that childhood trauma, including emotional abuse and neglect, significantly increased the risk of developing depression in adulthood. This trauma-depression link is particularly relevant because traditional therapies may not always address the underlying traumatic experiences contributing to depression.
EMDR as an Effective Treatment for Depression
1. EMDR Reduces Depressive Symptoms
Several studies have demonstrated that EMDR is effective in providing relief for people suffering from depression. A meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Psychology in 2021 analyzed 15 randomized controlled trials and concluded that EMDR significantly reduced depressive symptoms compared to control conditions.
2. EMDR Targets Root Causes
One of the key benefits of EMDR for depression is its ability to target depression’s root causes. Unlike traditional talk therapies that primarily focus on current thoughts and behaviors, EMDR delves into past experiences and negative core beliefs someone has about themselves that may be worsening the feelings of “blah” or worthlessness characteristic of depression. Research shows that utilizing EMDR to reduce symptoms of depression provides effective, fast relief.
3. EMDR Improves Self-Esteem
Low self-esteem is a common feature of depression, often stemming from negative beliefs formed in response to past experiences. EMDR helps reprocess these beliefs, replacing them with more adaptive, accurate thoughts. A study in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that folks who utilized EMDR therapy reported significant relief from depression symptoms and improvements in self-esteem. This shift in self-perception can be a critical factor in long-term recovery from depression.
4. EMDR Works Quickly
Compared to traditional therapies, EMDR often produces faster results. A study published in the European Journal of Psychotraumatology found that folks experiencing depression who received EMDR experienced significant symptom reduction after just a few sessions. This rapid improvement can be particularly beneficial for individuals seeking relief from depression without committing to long-term therapy.
Research-Backed Benefits of EMDR for Depression
1. Long-Lasting Effects
One of the most compelling benefits of EMDR for depression is the durability of its effects. A study published in Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics found that folks who engaged in EMDR therapy for depression continued to report full relief from depression for a year after treatment ended. This research suggests that EMDR not only provides short-term relief but also promotes at times, full remission from depressive episodes.
2. EMDR and Neuroplasticity
Emerging research indicates that EMDR promotes neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new neural connections. This is particularly relevant for depression, as studies have shown that chronic depression reduces neuroplasticity in certain brain regions. A study in the Journal of Neuropsychobiology found that EMDR led to increased activity in brain regions associated with emotional regulation and decreased activity in areas linked to emotional distress.
EMDR as a Complement to Other Treatments
While EMDR can be highly effective as a standalone treatment, it can also complement other therapeutic approaches. For instance, combining EMDR with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or medication may enhance treatment outcomes for individuals with severe or treatment-resistant depression. Research in the Journal of Affective Disorders supports this integrative approach, finding that EMDR combined with other therapies resulted in greater symptom reduction than either treatment alone.
Conclusion
EMDR offers a promising alternative for folks wanting relief from depression. By addressing the root causes of depression, reducing negative core beliefs, and promoting neuroplasticity, EMDR provides an effective, generally rapid, and research-backed approach to treatment. For those seeking a faster, long-lasting, and trauma-informed approach to overcoming depression, EMDR is worth considering.
Incorporating EMDR into your treatment may offer new hope and a path to recovery that addresses the deep-seated issues contributing to your depression. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, consider reaching out to us at EMDR Center of Denver to schedule your free 15 minute consultation today.
Jeanne Cross, LCSW, LAC
Jeanne Cross has more than ten years of experience working with adults. She is formally trained in EMDR and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) and specializes in helping people find relief from depression, anxiety, grief and loss, addiction, and trauma. She has both a License in Clinical Social Work (LCSW) and License in Addiction Counseling (LAC). She graduated with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Master’s in Divinity from Duke University with esteemed honors including the Robert E Bryan Public Service Award and Bosch Award from UNC at Chapel Hill and the McMurray Richey Outstanding Student Award, Marsha Sterns Award, and Addie Davis Leadership Nominee from Duke University. Jeanne’s career has taken her everywhere from training a team of social workers in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) who assisted children removed from human trafficking in the Philippines to helping people find relief from depression, addiction, grief and loss, and anxiety in outpatient, residential, and hospital settings. She looks forward to working with you!