Trauma Tip Sheet: Understanding Trauma and How EMDR Therapy Can Help

This informative resource provides essential knowledge about trauma, its widespread impact, and how Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy offers a path to healing.

The tip sheet begins by defining trauma as an overwhelming response to frightening, dangerous, or violent events that exceed our natural coping abilities. It emphasizes that while severe events like death, injury, abuse, or sexual violence commonly cause trauma, everyday stressors like job pressure, divorce, or accidents can also trigger trauma responses.

Key Statistics Highlighted:

• 70% of adults in the United States have experienced at least one traumatic event

• Childhood trauma significantly increases lifelong health risks

• 90% of clients in mental health services have trauma histories

Common Signs of Trauma:

The resource outlines various manifestations of trauma, including depression, hypervigilance, exaggerated startle responses, irritability, shame, emotional numbness, flashbacks, avoidance behaviors, daily functioning difficulties, and substance abuse.

EMDR Therapy as a Solution:

The tip sheet explains EMDR therapy as an evidence-based approach designed to help the brain process traumatic memories naturally. It notes that EMDR has been extensively researched and is recommended specifically for trauma treatment. For many individuals, trauma symptoms diminish or disappear completely after successful EMDR therapy.

This comprehensive guide serves as both an educational tool for understanding trauma's widespread impact and an introduction to EMDR therapy as an effective treatment option for those suffering from traumatic experiences.