The Effectiveness of EMDR in Reducing Psychological Distress in Survivors of Natural Disasters: A Review
The Humanitarian Assistance Programme has attempted to address mental health needs by providing EMDR to natural disaster survivors.
Article Abstract
“Natural disasters affect whole communities both at an individual level as well as economically and socially. However, the impact of natural disasters on an individual’s mental health is substantial; yet, the response to one’s mental health needs after a disaster is underdeveloped. Nevertheless, the Humanitarian Assistance Programme has attempted to address these needs by providing eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) to natural disaster survivors. This systematic review provides evidence for the effectiveness and efficacy of EMDR in the treatment of psychological distress in survivors of natural disasters. Of the 8 studies reviewed, 4 were controlled trials and 1 study part-controlled. All the studies demonstrated statistical and clinical significance in reducing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, anxiety, depression, and other distress experienced by survivors of natural disasters. In addition, 4 of the 8 studies demonstrated clinical significance after just 1 session, presenting EMDR as resource-, time-, and cost-efficient intervention. Theoretical framework, adaptation in intervention, methodological issues, and quality assessment of studies are discussed. Implications for future research and clinical practice are also discussed.”
—Description from publisher
Article Access
Open Access
Natha, F., & Daiches, A. (2014). The Effectiveness of EMDR in Reducing Psychological Distress in Survivors of Natural Disasters: A Review. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 8(3), 157–170. https://doi.org/10.1891/1933-3196.8.3.157
About the Journal
The Journal of EMDR Practice and Research is a peer-reviewed publication devoted to integrative, state-of-the-art papers about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a broadly conceived interdisciplinary journal that stimulates and communicates research and theory about EMDR, and their application to clinical practice. The Journal of EMDR Practice and Research is the Official Publication of the EMDR International Association.
Date
September 1, 2014
Creator(s)
Fehmida Natha, Anna Daiches
Topics
Tragedies
Extent
14 pages
Publisher
Springer Publishing Company
Rights
Copyright © 2014 EMDR International Association
APA Citation
Natha, F., & Daiches, A. (2014). The Effectiveness of EMDR in Reducing Psychological Distress in Survivors of Natural Disasters: A Review. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 8(3), 157–170. https://doi.org/10.1891/1933-3196.8.3.157
Series
8
Installment
3
Audience
EMDR Therapists
Language
English
Content Type
Meta-analyses/Systematic Reviews
Original Source
Journal of EMDR Practice and Research
Access Type
Open Access