Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing facts for kids
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a special type of therapy that helps people deal with upsetting memories and feelings. It was created by a psychologist named Francine Shapiro. She noticed that when people thought about difficult events while moving their eyes, it seemed to help them feel better about those memories.
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What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy is a way to help your brain process tough experiences that might be stuck. When something very upsetting happens, your brain might not fully "file away" the memory in a helpful way. This can make you feel bad, even long after the event. EMDR aims to help your brain properly store these memories so they don't bother you as much.
How EMDR Was Discovered
Dr. Francine Shapiro first came up with the idea for EMDR in the late 1980s. She noticed that when she thought about her own upsetting thoughts while moving her eyes from side to side, her feelings became less intense. She then started studying this idea with others and developed it into a full therapy method.
How EMDR Helps Your Brain
Think of your brain like a computer. Sometimes, a memory can get "stuck" or "corrupted," causing problems. EMDR therapy uses something called "bilateral stimulation." This means stimulating both sides of your brain, usually by moving your eyes back and forth, or by hearing sounds in alternating ears, or even by tapping on your hands. This back-and-forth action seems to help your brain process difficult memories, making them less upsetting. It's like helping your brain "unstick" the memory and put it in the right place.
How Does EMDR Therapy Work?
EMDR therapy is usually done with a trained therapist. It's not just about moving your eyes; it's a step-by-step process that helps you work through difficult feelings and memories in a safe way.
What Happens in a Session?
During an EMDR session, your therapist will guide you. First, you'll talk about the memory or feeling that is bothering you. Then, while you focus on that memory, the therapist will ask you to follow their finger or a light with your eyes. Sometimes, they might use headphones with beeping sounds or small buzzers that you hold in your hands. This bilateral stimulation happens for short periods, and then you'll pause to notice what you're thinking or feeling. The goal is to help you process the memory until it no longer feels as upsetting.
Who Can EMDR Help?
EMDR therapy is often used to help people who have experienced very stressful or upsetting events. It can help with feelings like:
- Feeling very worried or anxious
- Having bad dreams or flashbacks
- Feeling sad or down because of something that happened
- Difficulty concentrating or sleeping
It's a therapy that helps people of all ages, including kids and teens, to feel better and move past difficult experiences.
Is EMDR Safe and Effective?
Many experts and health organizations around the world recognize EMDR as a helpful and effective therapy. It's considered a safe way to help people deal with upsetting memories and improve their emotional well-being.
