PTSD can manifest itself in many different ways.

Sometimes, it takes a certain trigger to notice the symptoms. Other times, they can just “show up” periodically.

If they aren’t properly managed, though, these symptoms can become debilitating.

Coping with PTSD symptoms is an individualized process. Everyone deals with them differently. Some people need a little extra help to cope with their symptoms and get through some of the hardest times.

One increasingly popular and effective solution for managing PTSD symptoms is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EDMR) therapy.

If you haven’t heard of this type of therapy and you’re struggling with symptoms of PTSD, here is how it may benefit you.

What Are the Most Common PTSD Symptoms?

Again, everyone experiences symptoms from PTSD differently. But recognizing some of the most common symptoms can help you have a better understanding of what you’re dealing with. And being able to admit you might be struggling is the first step toward getting help.

You might be dealing with the after-effects of trauma if you have some of these symptoms:

  • Fear
  • Anxiety
  • Irritability
  • Insomnia
  • Loss of interest
  • Anger
  • Self-destructive behaviors

If you are experiencing any of those symptoms and you’re worried they might be connected to a traumatic event in your life, you could be dealing with PTSD.

Unfortunately, it’s unlikely the symptoms will just “go away” on their own. In fact, they tend to get worse over time when the PTSD isn’t properly managed.

What Is EDMR and How Can it Help?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy is the practice of reprocessing traumatic memories.

Sometimes, when people hear this, they think that means the memory will be gone forever. That’s just not true, though. It’s unlikely you’ll ever be able to erase a memory completely. Instead, EDMR helps to change how a particular memory affects you.

If you’ve gone through a traumatic event and it has affected you in a negative way, EDMR helps you take control over the memory of that event. It allows you to understand that the event itself did indeed happen. But it also helps you to recognize that you can get through it without continuously experiencing the negative emotions that go along with it.

Once you’re able to do that, the traumatic experience becomes just like any other memory. It doesn’t go away, but it doesn’t have the same crippling effects as before. You may think about it from time to time, without experiencing the symptoms of PTSD or dealing with intense negative emotions.

When you’re able to do that, you can finally break free of the chains a traumatic event can place on you.

The Importance of Trauma Therapy

Trauma therapy, like EDMR, helps you to get your life back. Almost everyone will go through some type of painful or even traumatic experience in their life. Being able to handle those experiences in a healthy manner makes a big difference.

When you’re unable to manage your memories and emotions connected to the event, though, it’s easy to feel like you’re in your own personal prison.

Keep in mind that going through any type of trauma therapy, including EDMR, isn’t easy. First, you have to recognize your symptoms and accept the fact that you’re struggling with the after-effects of a traumatic event. Then, you have to be willing to address them.

And while it may be a long journey—perhaps even a painful one—it’s a necessary process for getting through traumatic experiences and getting on with your life. Once you’ve achieved relief, you’ll be glad you embark on this journey.

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If you’re struggling with the symptoms of PTSD, please contact me. I would like to help.

Together, we can go through an individualized plan that works for you. My goal is always to help my patients re-take control of their lives. With the right kind of trauma therapy, that can happen for you!