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Treating COVID-19 patients with EMDR: A pilot study
Marie-Jo Brennstuhl1,2,3, Tarquinio Pascale4,2,3, Rydberg Jenny Ann5,2,3
1Maître de Conférences, Université de Lorraine, UR 4360 APEMAC, F-57000, Metz, France.
Summary
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy effectively reduced anxiety and depression in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. This four-session treatment improved psychological states and prevented long-lasting disorders.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Trauma Studies
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant global mental health challenges.
- Hospitalized patients face extreme stress, fear, and potential for developing posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.
- To reduce anxio-depressive symptoms, distress, and fear of the unknown in intensive care COVID-19 patients.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study involving 21 hospitalized COVID-19 patients (11 female, 10 male).
- Participants received a 4-session EMDR therapy treatment.
- Anxiety and depressive symptoms were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).
- Distress intensity was measured by the Subjective Units of Disturbance (SUD) scale.
- Fear of the unknown was evaluated using the Multidimensional Assessment of COVID-19-Related Fears (MAC-RF).
Main Results:
- EMDR therapy demonstrated effectiveness in reducing all evaluated symptoms in all patients.
- The treatment led to psychological stabilization.
- Improved psychological states were maintained for one week post-treatment.
Conclusions:
- EMDR therapy is an effective strategy for processing adverse events and relieving acute stress and trauma symptoms.
- As few as four EMDR sessions can strengthen coping strategies, restore optimism, and prevent long-term psychological disorders in patients facing stressful situations.
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