Why Is Emdr So Exhausting?

[KP the nut]

Did you know that your brain uses 20% of your body's energy?

But the big question is how many calories does it burn????

 

[cat]

KP - I've come to the conclusion that it burns many calories, but the side effect of meds means we dont lose weight. I am always starving about 2hrs after therapy & forgot to say that with my coffee comes the largest most calorie laden slice of cake in the cafe!

 

[Lucycat]

I have lost loads of weight since starting therapy. I know the meds I am on are supposed to make you gain weight, but my appetite has really decreased. It certainly is not a problem, I am so much happier with my weight now.

However it has been hard when people ask what diet I am on! CPTSD really doesn't sound like what they want to hear, and I can't go round offering it as a recommendation.

But from what has been said above, it is great to think my brain is capable of working so hard.....

 

[KP the nut]

My appetite has also decreased but the pounds are still there :confused:. Must try harder, well after my birthday, oh and them I'm on holiday. OK definitely after the holiday :roflmao:

 

[mamachick]

Normal brain/person uses 20% of body energy-now I understand my fatigue and exhaustion better.
I have only done emdr one time-do you see positive lasting results. My therapist wants to do this but it seems every visit there is more other crap to talk about but I think I might prefer focus on emdr at this point if others see positive results?

 

[KP the nut]

I have seen a huge positive difference. IMHO my T made it successful, he was well trained in different methods to ensure I was back in the room and he prepared me as to what to expect eg tiredness, odd thoughts, and continuing to process info after the session.

 

[Lucycat]

I too, have seen a huge positive difference from EMDR.

I also agree wholeheartedly that it is the T that makes it work or not. Basic training is essential, but on top of that they must have the flexibility, experience and confidence to slightly vary the technique to suit the client and situation. EMDR sounds such a simple therapy, and I have always used tones rather than eye movement, but my T has used a range of methods within that.

It seems to me that it is the very subtle differences in the method that makes a big difference to the outcome.

 

[Knak]

EMDR never made me tired and I wish I knew why because I think that in itself indicates something else is occurring in my brain.
I would cry during almost all of the EMDR sessions. I had EMDR weekly for two years and never stopped crying.
I also could not find a thought or place in my mind where I could physically relax, which is something they want you to have in case you get too disturbed.
I did made more progress with EMDR than in any other therapy but it was difficult emotionally.
Since age ten I have had fatigue due to the depression from holding in my pain. I can generally only operate on adrenaline. I also have ADD.
My therapist increasingly wanted me to talk instead of doing EMDR. She also also questioned my veracity at times, which really bothered me.
I finally quit because I wasn't close to reaching my goal of feeling I had a choice about ending my marriage without feeling terrified. Dwelling on it created constant self blame, and I mean constant. I needed a break.
I felt I could have gotten further if I could have done more EMDR but I felt my counselor wasn't helping and I didn't want to waste more money.