If you’ve been exploring trauma therapy options, you’ve likely heard about eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). This evidence-based therapy has gained significant recognition for its effectiveness in processing traumatic memories. While many people discuss EMDR’s phases and therapeutic benefits, there’s less conversation about what happens after your sessions. You might be wondering how you’ll be affected by EMDR in the short term.
EMDR isn’t an easy process. It brings up difficult feelings and memories by design, which means you might experience some complicated emotions and sensations afterward. Understanding what to expect and how to manage these responses can help you navigate your healing journey with greater confidence.
Emotional responses after EMDR therapy
After an EMDR session, you might notice some emotional shifts. It’s common to have mood swings, and you may find yourself feeling especially sensitive or tearful. Old emotions you haven’t thought about in years might suddenly surface, catching you off guard. These responses won’t last forever.
On the other hand, you might also experience emotional benefits. Some people report feeling lighter, as if the weight of their trauma is finally moving past them. Both types of responses are normal parts of the healing process. If you’re feeling emotionally raw after your sessions, try these techniques:
- Lean on the coping skills your therapist has given you.
- Acknowledge and accept the feelings that come up, since it’s completely normal to feel different.
- Consider limiting stressful activities immediately after your EMDR sessions. Instead, do something nurturing for yourself. Visit a park, spend time at an art museum, enjoy coffee with a friend, or practice yoga. Give yourself space to decompress.
Physical sensations you might experience
EMDR therapy can affect you physically as well. You might feel exhausted or completely drained after a session. Some people experience physical symptoms of stress like headaches or an upset stomach. These sensations are your body’s way of processing the work you’re doing in therapy. You might also notice that you feel less tense than before. If that’s the case, embrace it as a sign of progress. To take care of yourself, make sure to:
- Give yourself permission to rest. If taking yourself out doesn’t feel right, consider taking a nap or winding down earlier than usual.
- Treat your body gently with long baths, calming foods, or herbal tea.
Managing intrusive memories
You might find it harder to concentrate after EMDR sessions, or you may experience intrusive memories. This is temporary and actually indicates that your brain is actively working through the traumatic memory. As your mind processes what you’ve uncovered in therapy, these thoughts and images may surface more frequently. You should:
- Stick to the grounding tools you’ve worked on with your therapist. They’re designed for these moments.
- Try to stay present in your body using deep breathing techniques.
- Engage in activities that don’t require intense concentration, and allow yourself the space to reset.
- Journaling after your therapy sessions can be especially helpful for processing these intense emotional, physical, and memory sensations as they come up.
You’re doing the right thing
Remember that everything you’re experiencing is temporary. The discomfort you feel after EMDR sessions is part of the healing process. You’re bettering yourself by pursuing trauma therapy and committing to your healing journey.
If you’re struggling with persistent or overwhelming symptoms after EMDR, don’t hesitate to reach out to your therapist. They can help you adjust your treatment plan or provide additional support strategies. And if you’re considering EMDR but haven’t started yet, know that while the process can be challenging, the path to healing is worth it.
Ready to explore whether EMDR therapy is right for you? Book a consultation today to learn more about how we can support your healing journey.
