Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychological intervention that provides swift relief from emotional distress attached to memories. It is highly efficacious, removing symptoms that may have been lifelong, in a far shorter time than many other interventions.
EMDR can be used for just about any memory that has negative feelings associated with it. EMDR works quickly and utilises aspects of many successful psychological interventions, adding in the element which assists the brain to process the information (memory) more fully through bi-lateral stimulation (both sides of the brain communicating). This bi-lateral stimulation allows the brain to process the disturbing memory so that it is no longer stuck and is integrated in a functional way, allowing the individual to continue with their lives unimpeded by the memory.
It is a well-established treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and its use is endorsed by many governments across the globe for assisting war veterans to reintegrate into their civilian lives or in preparation for a return to the frontline. The evidence supporting the use of EMDR for PTSD is well-established, and research into this treatment is ongoing.