Depression is a common mental health condition affecting around 1 in 7 Australians. It is typically diagnosed when an individual has experienced a period of low mood for more than two weeks. For many people, depression can be successfully treated with talk therapy, antidepressant medication, or a combination of both. 

However, for some people, depression can become chronic and be resistant to the usual treatments. This can seriously impact quality of life, making it difficult to work, maintain relationships, or even participate in hobbies that were once a source of enjoyment.

For individuals who have found the usual depression treatments ineffective, a relatively new therapy may offer another treatment option. Psychologists in Melbourne are using EMDR therapy to support clients experiencing long-term depression, and research suggests it may be a beneficial approach for some individuals.

What is EMDR Therapy?

Originally devised in 1987 by psychologist Dr. Francine Shapiro for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured therapy for processing traumatic or distressing memories to reduce their impact on a person’s life. 

Working through traumatic memories can be very confronting. EMDR therapy provides a structured and supportive environment to do so, carefully guided by a psychologist. There are eight phases involved in EMDR therapy, including desensitisation, a technique that requires the client to briefly focus on a specific memory while the psychologist guides them through a series of rapid eye movements (a type of bilateral stimulation).

In comparison to other treatment options, EMDR therapy is fairly new. However, numerous peer-reviewed clinical trials have been conducted since its inception, establishing EMDR as an evidence-based treatment for trauma-related conditions.

How does EMDR work?

Over the course of a lifetime, a person will experience many negative events, the majority of which will be minor and easily processed. However, traumatic life events are much harder to process, and as a result, a person can bury these memories because they are too painful to think about. When these unprocessed memories resurface, they can trigger negative feelings, thoughts and behaviours which can make a past event feel like it is happening in real time. This is very distressing.

EMDR seeks to process a disturbing memory so that it no longer triggers the same level of distressing symptoms in the present.

Clinical trials have established the effectiveness of EMDR therapy, though less is known about exactly how it works in other conditions. One theory is that bilateral stimulation activates the brain’s memory processing system, allowing the individual to store a new version of a traumatic memory without the distressing emotions and beliefs once associated with it. 

How EMDR can help with depression 

When a person’s depression is linked to past trauma, EMDR can be especially helpful. However, there is increasing research interest suggesting that some forms of stress-related long-term depression may respond well to EMDR therapy, too. 

Memories of stressful life experiences can induce feelings of guilt, shame, humiliation, and worthlessness. These feelings can be very difficult to rationalise when a person is extremely depressed, which can exacerbate negative thoughts and beliefs. By targeting a specific memory, EMDR therapy can support individuals to reprocess distressing experiences and address negative self-beliefs.

How long does EMDR therapy take?

The duration of EMDR treatment can vary from person to person. EMDR therapy sessions typically run for 60 – 90 minutes and focus on one distressing memory at a time. Each memory may require 3 – 6 sessions. For clients with complex trauma or long-term depression, 8 -12+ sessions may be required. The progress of the treatment is tailored to the client’s needs, to support their sense of safety and control throughout the process. 

To explore whether this treatment option may be appropriate for you, consider speaking with a qualified EMDR Melbourne psychologist who can assess your situation and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. EMDR therapy may not be appropriate for everyone. Always consult a qualified health professional before starting any treatment. 

If you need urgent support, call 000 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.