Virtual EMDR Blog
WHAT IS THE VERY WORST SYMPTOM OF PTSD?
03 Jul 2019
We privately asked a large group of people who have used the Virtual EMDR Trauma and PTSD Programs what they thought their worst PTSD symptom was.
Their answers varied considerably, but when we added
up the responses the specific symptom most often
described as the hardest to manage. The answer?
Having sudden and uncontrolled outbursts
of explosive anger or rage.
“I go from totally calm and normal to wanting to punch someone in the face in about 2 seconds. The rage just takes control over me,” a survey respondent said. “Later when I calmed down, I couldn’t believe the way I had behaved. My therapist says this is my brain being hijacked by the PTSD.”
When asked for comment about his experience with treating himself, he went on to say that Virtual EMDR was a “game changer” for him and was able to decrease most of his symptoms after only a few sessions.
The Virtual EMDR Eye Movement Therapy Program offers two programs (or protocols) for working with your PTSD. The first deals with specific memories of the traumatic event and the second focuses on present after-effects of the trauma. You can try it for free here.
PTSD is not something that only comes from experiencing the horrors of war and combat. The reality is that it can also stem from things like ongoing verbal and emotional abuse in childhood, domestic violence, being attacked or sexually assaulted, being in an accident, or even bullying and threats.
The National Institute of Mental Health describes the Signs and Symptoms of PTSD as follows:
Symptoms usually begin early, within 3 months of the traumatic incident, but sometimes they begin years afterward. Symptoms must last more than a month and be severe enough to interfere with relationships or work to be considered PTSD. The course of the illness varies. Some people recover within 6 months, while others have symptoms that last much longer. In some people, the condition becomes chronic.
To be diagnosed with PTSD, an adult must have all the following for at least 1 month:
- At least one re-experiencing symptom
- At least one avoidance symptom
- At least two arousal and reactivity symptoms
- At least two cognition and mood symptoms
- Re-experiencing symptoms include:
- Flashbacks—reliving the trauma over and over, including physical symptoms like a racing heart or sweating
- Bad dreams
- Frightening thoughts
Re-experiencing symptoms may cause problems in a person’s everyday routine. The symptoms can start from the person’s own thoughts and feelings. Words, objects, or situations that are reminders of the event can also trigger re-experiencing symptoms.
Avoidance symptoms include:
- Staying away from places, events, or objects that are reminders of the traumatic experience
- Avoiding thoughts or feelings related to the traumatic event
Things that remind a person of the traumatic event can trigger avoidance symptoms. These symptoms may cause a person to change his or her personal routine. For example, after a bad car accident, a person who usually drives may avoid driving or riding in a car.
Arousal and reactivity symptoms include:
- Being easily startled
- Feeling tense or “on edge”
- Having difficulty sleeping
- Having angry outbursts
Arousal symptoms are usually constant, instead of being triggered by things that remind one of the traumatic events. These symptoms can make the person feel stressed and angry. They may make it hard to do daily tasks, such as sleeping, eating, or concentrating.
Cognition and mood symptoms include:
- Trouble remembering key features of the traumatic event
- Negative thoughts about oneself or the world
- Distorted feelings like guilt or blame
- Loss of interest in enjoyable activities
Cognition and mood symptoms can begin or worsen after the traumatic event but are not due to injury or substance use. These symptoms can make the person feel alienated or detached from friends or family members.
It is natural to have some of these symptoms after a dangerous event. When people have very serious symptoms that go away after a few weeks, it is called acute stress disorder. When the symptoms last more than a month, seriously affect one’s ability to function, and are not due to substance use, medical illness, or anything except the event itself, they might be PTSD. Some people with PTSD don’t show any symptoms for weeks or months. PTSD is often accompanied by depression, substance abuse, or one or more of the other anxiety disorders.
PTSD Treatment with Virtual EMDR
-The Virtual EMDR Eye Movement Therapy Program offers two programs (or protocols) for working with your PTSD. The first deals with specific memories of the traumatic event and the second focuses on present after-effects of the trauma.
-You can work at your own pace, and you do not need to wait until the follow week for your therapist appointment to work on your symptoms.
-Users are guided Step-by-Step through the EMDR Process with helpful Illustrations, Interactive Features, and Instructional Videos. All you need is a Computer, iPad or Tablet, and some Headphones.
YOU CAN TRY VIRTUAL EMDR FREE HERE
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Using EMDR to treat
Depression
Depression is one of many emotional disorders that can be effectively treated using EMDR therapy.
In scientific studies, EMDR has been used successfully on major depressive disorder, long-term depression, and other depression. It is also effective to treat depression alongside PTSD, addiction, anxiety and other disorders.
Unlike traditional treatment, EMDR delivers faster-acting, more effective and longer-lasting results, by addressing the root causes of Depression, not just the symptoms.
Many people report feeling a noticeable improvement even after just one EMDR session - and a significant reduction in their symptoms after only a few sessions!
Thousands of people have used Virtual EMDR's online self-guided program to address Depression in the privacy and safety of their home. Click to learn how Virtual EMDR works on Depression >>
“Depression was something I had to live with - or so I thought... After using Virtual EMDR in the past week, I’m STAGGERED at the massive improvement! I now feel well enough to go back to work!"
Using EMDR to treat
ANXIETY
Anxiety is one of many emotional disorders that can be effectively treated using EMDR therapy.
In scientific studies, EMDR has been used successfully on people suffering from panic attacks, social anxiety (agoraphobia), general anxiety disorder and other types of Anxiety. It is also effective to treat anxiety alongside PTSD, addiction, depression and other disorders.
Unlike traditional treatment, EMDR delivers faster-acting, more effective and longer-lasting results, by addressing the root causes of Anxiety, not just the symptoms.
Many people report feeling a noticeable improvement even after just one EMDR session - and a significant reduction in their symptoms after only a few sessions!
Thousands of people have used Virtual EMDR's online self-guided program to address Anxiety in the privacy and safety of their home. Click to learn how Virtual EMDR works on Anxiety >>
“Virtual EMDR has absolutely helped with my Anxiety and paranoias! After using the program, things that used to bother me don’t give me the same emotional distress anymore. The weight of the troubling thoughts that were haunting me are lifted. Thank you!”
Using EMDR to treat
CHILDHOOD TRAUMA
Childhood Trauma is one of many emotional disorders that can be effectively treated using EMDR therapy.
EMDR has been used successfully on people who have been living with the shame and blame of childhood trauma. Many had struggled for years with PTSD, depression, addictions, grief, anger issues, and other types of emotional pain.
Unlike traditional treatment, EMDR delivers faster-acting, more effective and longer-lasting results, by addressing the root causes of Childhood Trauma, not just the symptoms.
Many people report feeling a noticeable improvement even after just one EMDR session - and a significant reduction in their symptoms after only a few sessions!
Thousands of people have used Virtual EMDR's online self-guided program to address Childhood Trauma in the privacy and safety of their home. Click to learn how Virtual EMDR works on Childhood Trauma >>
“Virtual EMDR helped me to finally come to terms with my childhood trauma. I don’t remember much, because I had buried the pain for so long. After using Virtual EMDR, I could finally recall the suppressed memories and get past what happened. It’s worked better than anything I’ve tried!”
Using EMDR to treat
POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is one of many emotional disorders that can be effectively treated using EMDR therapy. In fact, PTSD was the first condition initially treated by EMDR in the 1990s.
In scientific studies, EMDR has been used successfully on people suffering from PTSD as a result of combat, childhood trauma, personal tragedy, abuse, and crime. Many had struggled helplessly with the emotional pain for years.
Unlike traditional treatment, EMDR delivers faster-acting, more effective and longer-lasting results, by addressing the root causes of PTSD, not just the symptoms. EMDR has been shown to be more effective than Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and talk therapy.
Many people report feeling a noticeable improvement even after just one EMDR session - and a significant reduction in their symptoms after only a few sessions!
Thousands of people have used Virtual EMDR's online self-guided program to address PTSD in the privacy and safety of their home.Click to learn how Virtual EMDR works on PTSD >>
“I was diagnosed with Complex PTSD 2 years ago and was totally suicidal. I had countless panic attacks, and would wake in the night screaming. After using Virtual EMDR for just 1 week, I’ve experienced incredible results! My chronic pain is gone. I can do normal things that I couldn’t just last week. You are saving lives!”
Using EMDR to treat
ADDICTION
ADDICTION is one of many emotional disorders that can be effectively treated using EMDR therapy.
EMDR has been used successfully on people suffering from addictions to substances (drugs, alcohol, pills) and addictive behaviors (gambling, sex addiction, eating disorders). Many had struggled helplessly with the guilt and emotional pain for years.
Unlike traditional treatment, EMDR delivers faster-acting, more effective and longer-lasting results, by addressing the root causes of Addiction, not just the symptoms.
Many people report feeling a noticeable improvement even after just one EMDR session - and a significant reduction in their symptoms after only a few sessions!
Thousands of people have used Virtual EMDR's online self-guided program to address Addiction in the privacy and safety of their home.Click to learn how Virtual EMDR works on Addiction >>
“Thank you, Virtual EMDR, for helping me get sober. All my adult life, I drank like a fish to numb my pain from childhood trauma, depression, fear and anxiety. Virtual EMDR helped me to finally make peace with my abusive childhood, allowing me to get some distance from acting out with alcohol. I’ve been able to stay sober and stop living my life at the bottom of a bottle!”
Using EMDR to treat
ANGER
Anger is one of many emotional disorders that can be effectively treated using EMDR therapy.
EMDR has been used successfully on people suffering from uncontrollable anger and other unwanted emotions. Many had struggled helplessly with the guilt and shame of their behavior for years, knowing the cost to themselves and their loved ones.
Unlike traditional treatment, EMDR delivers faster-acting, more effective and longer-lasting results, by addressing the root causes of Anger and Unwanted Emotions, not just the symptoms.
Many people report feeling a noticeable improvement even after just one EMDR session - and a significant reduction in their symptoms after only a few sessions!
Thousands of people have used Virtual EMDR's online self-guided program to address Anger and other unwanted emotions in the privacy and safety of their home.Click to learn how Virtual EMDR works on Anger >>
“For years, I struggled with anger, depression, and irritability that would be set off by the smallest things, and last for days. Virtual EMDR does what it says it does! It disempowered the negative emotions inside. Things that used to trigger a response no longer set me off. I feel at ease, finally in control”
Using EMDR to treat
SELF-ESTEEM
If you are living with self-esteem issues, EMDR therapy can help you permanently eliminate the disempowering mindsets and self-beliefs that are holding you back.
Whether the result of traumatic experience, childhood neglect, or negative self-talk, low self-esteem can impact every aspect of your life.
Let EMDR deliver faster-acting, more effective and longer-lasting results, by addressing the root causes of Self-Esteem, not just the symptoms.
Many people report feeling a noticeable improvement even after just one EMDR session - and a significant reduction in their symptoms after only a few sessions!
Thousands of people have used Virtual EMDR's online self-guided program to address Self-Esteem issues in the privacy and safety of their home.Click to learn how Virtual EMDR works on Self-Esteem >>
“For as long as I can remember, I told myself that “I am worthless. I am shameful. I am wrong and scary. I am too needy.
After using Virtual EMDR, I now believe that ‘I am worthy of love. I am attractive. People love me and are thinking of me”. Thank you for helping me on my journey to self-love.’”
Using EMDR to treat
GRIEF
Grief is one of many emotional disorders that can be effectively treated using EMDR therapy.
EMDR has been used successfully on people suffering from grief due to loss of a loved one, miscarriage, divorce or separation, personal tragedy, and other life events.
Unlike traditional treatment, EMDR delivers faster-acting, more effective and longer-lasting results, by addressing the root causes of Grief, not just the symptoms.
Many people report feeling a noticeable improvement even after just one EMDR session - and a significant reduction in their symptoms after only a few sessions!
Thousands of people have used Virtual EMDR's online self-guided program to address Grief in the privacy and safety of their home.Click to learn how Virtual EMDR works on Grief >>
“I lost my son in very tragic circumstances. Today, my grief counsellor recommended Virtual EMDR to me – and I’m so glad she did. In just my first session, my pain when thinking of my son went from 8 (on a 10-point scale) to 1! I felt a sense of peace and calm that I hadn’t experienced in a long time. Thank you!”
Using EMDR to treat
PHOBIA
Phobia is one of many emotional disorders that can be effectively treated using EMDR therapy.
EMDR has been used successfully on people suffering from phobias, such as agoraphobia (social anxiety), claustrophobia (enclosed spaces), entomophobia (insects), fear of flying, public speaking, and other phobia.
Unlike traditional treatment, EMDR delivers faster-acting, more effective and longer-lasting results, by addressing the root causes of Phobia, not just the symptoms.
Many people report feeling a noticeable improvement even after just one EMDR session - and a significant reduction in their symptoms after only a few sessions!
Thousands of people have used Virtual EMDR's online self-guided program to address Phobia in the privacy and safety of their home.Click to learn how Virtual EMDR works on Phobia >>
“I did 5 sessions of Virtual EMDR to deal with my severe claustrophobia. I was AMAZED at the results! Also, as a therapist with 15 years experience, I’ve introduced Virtual EMDR to my clients. It has significantly helped them with disorders, such as panic, PTSD, anxiety, depression. They are less reactive to their triggers and are more equipped to manage their distress. Highly recommended!“
Using EMDR to treat
STRESS
Stress is one of many emotional disorders that can be effectively treated using EMDR therapy.
EMDR has been used successfully on people suffering from stress and anxiety, caused by relationships, career, financial stress, health worries, and major life changes.
Unlike traditional treatment, EMDR delivers faster-acting, more effective and longer-lasting results, by addressing the root causes of Stress, not just the symptoms.
Many people report feeling a noticeable improvement even after just one EMDR session - and a significant reduction in their symptoms after only a few sessions!
Thousands of people have used Virtual EMDR's online self-guided program to address Stress in the privacy and safety of their home.Click to learn how Virtual EMDR works on Stress >>
“I was experiencing severe stress and anxiety, due to a recent natural disaster in my town. Virtual EMDR helped me cope with this stress, which was exacerbated by the deaths of two close friends. I found it very helpful to be able to do sessions online whenever I felt agitated or irritated. Thank you!“
Most Recent Comments
Thank you so much. This is so true an will change my life for the better.
I spent an hour on one session and it's truly a blessing that you have created this site/service. It's affordable and appreciated! I do have a therapist; but this is a wonderful addition to my therapy to process domestic violence PTSD. Thank you.
The fact that people are not able to control the occurrence of such moments of rage and anger suggests, Professional Writers improve that you should definitely pay special attention and get the help of specialists.