The stress and trauma of cancer treatment might linger in your head even after the treatment ends. It may usually occur in the form of PTSD and can be really challenging to overcome. This is where Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) can offer a real cure. It is a type of psychotherapy that can help process the trauma you experienced during your cancer treatment and reduce your emotional distress.
How can cancer treatment lead to trauma?
Cancer treatment isn’t just something that affects you physically but can also bring emotional trauma. This may happen because of surgery or due to different forms of therapy you might have gone through. It can give rise to uncertainty, which may leave a long-lasting impact on your mind. When fear, anxiety, or flashbacks of your traumatic treatment keep recurring, it can interrupt how you live your daily life.
How does EMDR therapy help?
EMDR therapy helps your brain process all the traumatic memories you had during cancer treatment, so they can become less overwhelming. During each session, a trained therapist may guide you through all your difficult memories of the treatment. They may do this along with some other form of stimulation, like tapping or sound. The combination of the precise eye movements and the stimulating sound can reduce the intensity of the emotions. This way, it can ease anxiety and help you cope with these emotions after your treatment.
Who can benefit from EMRD?
EMDR can guide you through the traumatic experiences of the past that you are still living with. When it comes to cancer:
People living with cancer who struggle with fear or distress after diagnosis.
Cancer survivors who struggle with treatment flashbacks that are difficult to cope with.
Family members or caregivers dealing with the emotional impact of supporting.
People with PTSD who struggle with nightmares or anxiety.
What to expect during your EMDR session?
At the start of an EMDR session, the therapist may ask you several questions regarding cancer treatment experiences. They usually do this to understand what you are suffering from and how severe it is. After understanding your condition, they can help you develop techniques to make you feel calm. You might be asked to briefly focus on a distressing memory while following the therapist's hand movements with your eyes. Your therapist will guide you through the process at a comfortable pace. If you stay consistent with your sessions, you might find that the once traumatic memories have become less emotionally distressing.
Calming your mind
Cancer can leave experiences that may turn into nightmares. EMDR can offer you the right support for overcoming these experiences and regaining a sense of calmness. By taking professional help, you can move ahead with your recovery and find meaning in your life.