EMDR Therapy Shows Promise for ICU Patients With PTSD

Researchers have found that Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy can reduce symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in patients who have survived intensive care unit (ICU) stays, according to a study delivered through the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre in Southampton. The EMERALD study indicates that this specialist talking therapy helps patients process distressing memories associated with critical illness, which affects approximately 200,000 survivors in the UK annually, according to the BBC.

The experience of critical illness, combined with long hospital stays and the effects of medication, leaves about one in four ICU survivors with anxiety, nightmares, or flashbacks, the BBC reports. These psychological burdens often persist long after the patient has physically recovered.

EMDR Therapy Application in ICU Recovery

EMDR is a recommended treatment for PTSD that allows the mind to process memories in a less upsetting manner. The therapy involves various techniques, such as having a patient follow a therapist’s finger with their eyes or listening to specific noises through headphones, according to the BBC.

The EMERALD study implemented this therapy at Poole General Hospital, The Royal Bournemouth Hospital, and University Hospital Southampton. While EMDR has previously been used to benefit war veterans, this small-scale study focused on the specific trauma of critical care, according to the BBC.

Dr. Andrew Bates, a research fellow at University Hospital Southampton and the chief investigator of the EMERALD study, stated that the research demonstrates the ability to identify at-risk patients and keep them engaged with trauma-focused support.

Patients often tell us that frightening memories, nightmares and anxiety can persist long after they have recovered physically. Trying to manage these symptoms alongside an already complicated physical recovery can place an enormous burden on patients and families.

Dr. Andrew Bates, via BBC

Patient Outcomes and Clinical Impact

Individual cases highlight the intersection of physical illness and psychological trauma. Hazel Southam of Hampshire was hospitalized in January 2024 due to a rare autoimmune condition, spending 43 days in intensive care and three weeks in an induced coma, according to the BBC.

Southam reported experiencing delirium likely caused by medication and was later diagnosed with post-ICU PTSD. She suffered from insomnia and high levels of stress before undergoing two rounds of EMDR therapy. Following the treatment, Southam stated that her sleep improved and the memories of her ICU stay no longer held as much fear, according to the BBC.

Future National Trials for NHS Integration

Because the EMERALD study was small, researchers are now seeking to expand the evidence base. The next phase involves a larger national trial to determine if EMDR consistently improves symptoms and assists patients in rebuilding their lives, according to the BBC.

Dr. Bates noted that the results of this larger trial could provide the necessary evidence to integrate EMDR into official NHS critical care recovery pathways. The Southampton research team continues to work toward further evidence regarding the benefit of the treatment for this patient population, the BBC reports.