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Miccoli M, Poli A. Randomized trial on the effects of an EMDR intervention on traumatic and obsessive symptoms during the COVID-19 quarantine: a psychometric study. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1369216. [PMID: 38988736 PMCID: PMC11233768 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1369216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction It has been suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic was a potentially traumatic occurrence that may have induced generalized anxiety and discomfort, particularly in susceptible populations like individuals with mental illnesses. The therapeutic approach known as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) has been shown to be successful in helping patients process traumatic events and restore wellbeing. Nevertheless, little is known about the precise processes through which EMDR fosters symptom recovery. Methods In order to disentangle these issues, we conducted a randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT06110702) with 107 participants who were selected from university hospitals as a sample of investigation. Random assignments were applied to the participants in order to assign them to the experimental and control groups. The experimental group, but not the control group, underwent an 8-week EMDR intervention. Body perception, disgust, and emotions of guilt and shame, as well as mental contamination and posttraumatic and obsessive-compulsive symptoms, were investigated before and after the EMDR intervention. Results The EMDR intervention was able to improve all of the variables investigated. Path analysis showed that body perception was able to predict both disgust and emotions of guilt and shame. Disgust was able to predict both mental contamination and obsessive-compulsive symptoms, while guilt and shame were able to predict post-traumatic symptoms. Conclusions EMDR is an effective therapy for the treatment of post-traumatic and obsessive symptoms that acts through the promotion of improvement of the emotions of guilt/shame and disgust, respectively. Implications for clinical practice are examined. Clinical trial registration https://www.clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT06110702.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Miccoli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Andrea Poli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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Danese A, Martsenkovskyi D, Remberk B, Khalil MY, Diggins E, Keiller E, Masood S, Awah I, Barbui C, Beer R, Calam R, Gagliato M, Jensen TK, Kostova Z, Leckman JF, Lewis SJ, Lorberg B, Myshakivska O, Pfeiffer E, Rosner R, Schleider JL, Shenderovich Y, Skokauskas N, Tolan PH, Caffo E, Sijbrandij M, Ougrin D, Leventhal BL, Weisz JR. Scoping Review: Digital Mental Health Interventions for Children and Adolescents Affected by War. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024:S0890-8567(24)00243-0. [PMID: 38735431 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2024.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE More than 200 million children and adolescents live in countries affected by violent conflict, are likely to have complex mental health needs, and struggle to access traditional mental health services. Digital mental health interventions have the potential to overcome some of the barriers in accessing mental health support. We performed a scoping review to map existing digital mental health interventions relevant for children and adolescents affected by war, to examine the strength of the evidence base, and to inform the development of future interventions. METHOD Based on a pre-registered strategy, we systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health, APA PsychInfo, and Google Scholar from the creation of each database to September 30, 2022, identifying k = 6,843 studies. Our systematic search was complemented by extensive consultation with experts from the GROW Network. RESULTS The systematic search identified 6 relevant studies: 1 study evaluating digital mental health interventions for children and adolescents affected by war, and 5 studies for those affected by disasters. Experts identified 35 interventions of possible relevance. The interventions spanned from universal prevention to specialist-guided treatment. Most interventions directly targeted young people and parents or carers/caregivers and were self-guided. A quarter of the interventions were tested through randomized controlled trials. Because most interventions were not culturally or linguistically adapted to relevant contexts, their implementation potential was unclear. CONCLUSION There is very limited evidence for the use of digital mental health interventions for children and adolescents affected by war at present. The review provides a framework to inform the development of new interventions. DIVERSITY & INCLUSION STATEMENT We actively worked to promote sex and gender balance in our author group. STUDY PREREGISTRATION INFORMATION Digital mental health interventions for children and young people affected by war: a scoping review; https://osf.io/; hrny9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Danese
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Dmytro Martsenkovskyi
- Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine; SI Institute of Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatric Examination and Drug Monitoring of Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine; National Children's Specialized Hospital OHMATDYT, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | | | | | - Emma Diggins
- University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom; Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Eleanor Keiller
- Queen Mary University of London, London, UK; East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Saba Masood
- Queen Mary University of London, London, UK; East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Isang Awah
- University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Renée Beer
- EMDR Europe Association, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Rachel Calam
- University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Marcio Gagliato
- The Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Network - MHPSS.net; Fordham University, New York City, New York
| | - Tine K Jensen
- University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, Oslo, Norway
| | - Zlatina Kostova
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts. Prof. Leckman is with
| | | | - Stephanie J Lewis
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Boris Lorberg
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts. Prof. Leckman is with
| | - Olha Myshakivska
- Institute of Psychiatry, Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | | | - Rita Rosner
- Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt, Eichstätt, Germany
| | | | - Yulia Shenderovich
- Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom; University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Ernesto Caffo
- University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy; Foundation Child; and the Foundation SOS Il Telefono Azzurro ONLUS
| | | | - Dennis Ougrin
- Queen Mary University of London, London, UK; East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - John R Weisz
- Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Sibilia J, Berna F, Bloch JG, Scherlinger M. Mind-body practices in chronic inflammatory arthritis. Joint Bone Spine 2024; 91:105645. [PMID: 37769800 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2023.105645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Mind-body practices are complementary approaches recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO). While these practices are very diverse, they all focus on the interaction between mind and body. These include mindful meditation, yoga, Tai Chi, sophrology, hypnosis and various relaxation techniques. There is growing interest in incorporating these strategies in the management of chronic rheumatic diseases including rheumatoid arthritis. The aim of this review is to describe the main mind-body practices and analyze the existing evidence in chronic rheumatic diseases. In rheumatoid arthritis, the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program, yoga, Tai Chi and relaxation may improve patient-reported outcomes, but the benefit on inflammation and structural progression is unclear. In spondyloarthritis, very few studies are available but similar evidence exist. Further evaluations of these practices in chronic rheumatic diseases are needed since their risk/benefit ratio appears excellent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Sibilia
- Service de Rhumatologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France; UMR INSERM 1109, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.
| | - Fabrice Berna
- Service de Psychiatrie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Jean-Gérard Bloch
- Service de Rhumatologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Marc Scherlinger
- Service de Rhumatologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France; UMR INSERM 1109, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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Sanz S, Valiente C, Espinosa R, Trucharte A. Psychological Group Interventions for Reducing Distress Symptoms in Healthcare Workers: A Systematic Review. Clin Psychol Psychother 2024; 31:e2980. [PMID: 38706143 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Healthcare workers exposed to emergencies and chronic stressors are at high risk of developing mental health problems. This review synthesized existing studies of group psychological therapy to reduce distress symptoms in healthcare workers (i.e., as complex and heterogeneous emotional states, characterized by the presence of symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder, burnout, anxiety, depression and moral injury). Searches were conducted using PRISMA guidelines and databases such as PubMed, PsycINFO, Medline and Web of Science, along with manual searches of reference lists of relevant articles. The search returned a total of 1071 randomized trials, of which 23 met the inclusion criteria. Of the total studies, nine were mindfulness interventions, seven were cognitive behavioural programmes, one was a programme based on acceptance and commitment therapy, one was an EMDR protocol and two focused on systemic and art therapy. Most studies aimed to reduce burnout, anxiety and depression; only three focused on post-traumatic stress disorder, and no studies were found that addressed moral injury. The results suggested that group interventions could be an effective tool to improve the mental health of healthcare workers and reduce their symptoms of distress, although many of the studies have methodological deficiencies. Limitations and future directions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Sanz
- Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Psychology, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Valiente
- Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Psychology, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Regina Espinosa
- Department of Psychology, Faculty HM Hospitals of Health Sciences, Camilo José Cela University, Madrid, Spain
- HM Hospitales Health Research Institute, Madrid, Spain
| | - Almudena Trucharte
- Department of Psychology, Faculty HM Hospitals of Health Sciences, Camilo José Cela University, Madrid, Spain
- HM Hospitales Health Research Institute, Madrid, Spain
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de Jongh A, de Roos C, El-Leithy S. State of the science: Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. J Trauma Stress 2024; 37:205-216. [PMID: 38282286 DOI: 10.1002/jts.23012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an evidence-based psychotherapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with support from more than 30 published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) demonstrating its effectiveness in both adults and children. Most international clinical practice guidelines recommend EMDR therapy as a first-line treatment for PTSD. This paper describes the current state of the evidence for EMDR therapy. We begin with a brief description of EMDR therapy and its theoretical framework. Next, we summarize the scientific support for its efficacy, effectiveness, and safety and discuss its applicability across cultures and with diverse populations. We conclude with suggestions for future directions to develop the research base and applications of EMDR therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ad de Jongh
- Research Department, PSYTREC, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
- Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carlijn de Roos
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Levvel, Academic Center for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sharif El-Leithy
- Traumatic Stress Service, Springfield University Hospital, London, UK
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Vock S, Delker A, Rinderknecht J, Engel F, Wieland S, Beiner E, Friederich HC, Jarero IN, Seidler GH, Tesarz J. Group eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in chronic pain patients. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1264807. [PMID: 38455119 PMCID: PMC10919217 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1264807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of chronic pain is increasing, and conventional pain therapies often have limited efficacy in individuals with high levels of psychological distress and a history of trauma. In this context, the use of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidence-based psychotherapy approach for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder, is becoming increasingly important. EMDR shows promising results, particularly for patients with pain and high levels of emotional distress. Although group therapy is becoming increasingly popular in pain management, EMDR has mainly been studied as an individual treatment. However, a systematic review suggests that group therapy can be an effective tool for improving mental health outcomes, especially when trauma is addressed together. Based on these findings, an outpatient EMDR group program was developed for patients with chronic pain. The program consists of a total of four treatment days with 5-5.5 h therapy sessions each day and provides patients with a supportive environment in which they can learn effective pain management strategies and interact with other patients with similar experiences. Initial pilot evaluations indicate high efficacy and adequate safety for patients with chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Vock
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anna Delker
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Janna Rinderknecht
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Felicitas Engel
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Wieland
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Eva Beiner
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hans-Christoph Friederich
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | - Jonas Tesarz
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
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Kaptan SK, Kaya ZM, Akan A. Addressing mental health need after COVID-19: a systematic review of remote EMDR therapy studies as an emerging option. Front Psychiatry 2024; 14:1336569. [PMID: 38250261 PMCID: PMC10799678 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1336569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with a substantial rise in mental health challenges, prompting a need for accessible and effective therapeutic interventions. This review summarizes the evidence on remote Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy delivered in response to the increased need. Methods A systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Databases including PsychINFO, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Web of Science were searched to identify studies assessing the efficacy of EMDR therapy administered online. Results Sixteen articles meeting the inclusion criteria were selected, involving 1,231 participants across various age groups. Studies covered remote individual and group EMDR sessions and self-administered computerized protocols. Findings indicate promising outcomes in reducing PTSD symptoms, anxiety, and depression. Discussion The analysis of the selected studies demonstrates the feasibility and potential efficacy of online EMDR as an accessible therapeutic option for addressing mental health difficulties, particularly during times of limited in-person interaction. However, the studies revealed limitations such as small sample sizes, absence of control groups, and reliance on self-reported measures.Systematic review registration: The present review was registered on "The International Database to Register Your Systematic Reviews" (INPLASY) with the registration number 2023120018 and DOI number 10.37766/inplasy2023.2.0068.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safa Kemal Kaptan
- Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, Boğaziçi University, İstanbul, Türkiye
- Honorary Fellow of the Institute of Teaching and Learning at the University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Zehra Merve Kaya
- Visiting Scholar, Department of Psychology, Boğaziçi University, İstanbul, Türkiye
- Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Chicago, State of Illinois, IL, United States
| | - Ayşe Akan
- Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, Boğaziçi University, İstanbul, Türkiye
- Registered Clinical Psychologist, Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), London, United Kingdom
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Yim SH, Lorenz H, Salkovskis P. The Effectiveness and Feasibility of Psychological Interventions for Populations Under Ongoing Threat: A Systematic Review. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2024; 25:577-592. [PMID: 36861772 PMCID: PMC10666526 DOI: 10.1177/15248380231156198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Current views of psychological therapies for trauma typically assume the traumatic event to be in the past. Yet, individuals who live in contexts of ongoing organized violence or experience intimate partner violence (IPV) may continue to be (re)exposed to related traumatic events or have realistic fears of their recurrence. This systematic review considers the effectiveness, feasibility, and adaptations of psychological interventions for individuals living with ongoing threat. PsychINFO, MEDLINE, and EMBASE were searched for articles that examined psychological interventions in contexts of ongoing threat of either IPV or organized violence and used trauma-related outcome measures. The search was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Data on study population, ongoing threat setting and design, intervention components, evaluation methods, and outcomes were extracted, and study quality was assessed using the Mixed-Method Appraisal Tool. Eighteen papers featuring 15 trials were included (12 on organized violence and 3 on IPV). For organized violence, most studies showed moderate to large effects in reducing trauma-related symptoms when compared to waitlists. For IPV, findings were varied. Most studies made adaptations related to culture and ongoing threat and found that providing psychological interventions was feasible. The findings, albeit preliminary with mixed methodological quality, showed psychological treatments can be beneficial and should not be withheld in the context of ongoing organized violence and IPV. Clinical and research recommendations are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- See Heng Yim
- University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Hjördis Lorenz
- University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Paul Salkovskis
- University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
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Hudson M, Johnson MI. Perspectives on emotional memory images and the persistence of pain. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2023; 4:1217721. [PMID: 37564631 PMCID: PMC10410568 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2023.1217721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple influences prevent recovery from pain. Our viewpoint is that non-conscious emotional memory images (EMIs) triggers outdated stress responses contributing to the intractability of pain. In this perspectives article we explore the concept that EMIs contribute to the persistence of pain. We contend that psychophysiological "stress" responses, resulting from first-time, novel and unprecedented pernicious or adverse events form EMIs within very short time frames (split-second learning). Subsequently, these EMIs are re-triggered in daily living, "re-playing" stress responses. We postulate that EMIs continually "raise the alarm" to socio-ecological stimuli by re-triggering the HPA-axis and amplifying neural input associated with threat, fear, anxiety, and pain, creating a debilitating state of psychophysiological dis-ease. We position the EMI within a philosophical debate on the nature and locus of memory and explain how the EMI, irrespective of whether it is a "thing" or a metaphor, can create a basis of understanding for the client to grasp. We describe a therapeutic approach (Split-Second Unlearning) to "clear" EMIs and the "stickiness" of pain and help people embark on a healing journey. This involves surveillance of clients for micro-expression(s) signifying an in-the-moment stress response, representative of the presence of an EMI, and encouraging the client to become a curious observer within/of their own experience. This helps the client detach their EMI from its stress response. We contend that this occurs rapidly without the need to get bogged down in a whole-life narrative. We advocate further exploration of our EMI model of dis-ease in the context of intractable pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matt Hudson
- Centre for Pain Research, School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Mind Help Limited, Durham, United Kingdom
| | - Mark I. Johnson
- Centre for Pain Research, School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
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Vignaud P, Chauliac N, Contamin E, Richer S, Vuillermoz C, Brunelin J, Prieto N. Relevance and Feasibility of Group Traumatic Episode Protocol Delivered to Migrants: A Pilot Field Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5419. [PMID: 37048033 PMCID: PMC10093804 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20075419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) are commonly observed in migrants. Although Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) can be helpful to treat these diseases, it remains difficult to propose EMDR as an individual intervention in help-seeking migrants. Group EMDR, like Group Traumatic Episode Protocol (G-TEP), which was built around the 8 phases of the original EMDR protocol, could offer an effective treatment to a large number of people. It may also be more resource-efficient to provide psychiatric care to migrants. METHODS In this open-label trial, the feasibility and the effectiveness of a 6-session G-TEP intervention was investigated in a group of 10 migrants. RESULTS The intervention was well tolerated by participants. The final attrition rate was 10%. After the intervention, there was a 28.2% significant decrease in PTSD and complex PTSD symptoms, as measured by the International Trauma Questionnaires (total_ITQ) scores (p = 0.013) and a trend towards a significant decrease in MDD symptoms, as measured with the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) (p = 0.057). CONCLUSIONS G-TEP may be effective in decreasing PTSD symptoms in migrants. The accessibility, low-cost, and very structured features of G-TEP may make its implementation sustainable in the field of psychiatric care for migrants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Vignaud
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Centre Régional du Psychotraumatisme Auvergne Rhône Alpes, F-69437 Lyon, France
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Cellule D’urgences Medico-Psychologiques, F-69437 Lyon, France
- INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, PSYR2 Team, Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, F-69500 Bron, France
| | - Nicolas Chauliac
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Centre Régional du Psychotraumatisme Auvergne Rhône Alpes, F-69437 Lyon, France
- Research on Healthcare Performance (RESHAPE), INSERM U1290, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, F-69008 Lyon, France
| | - Emmanuel Contamin
- Independent Researcher, 4 Rue du Viel Renversé, F-69005 Lyon, France
| | - Sébastien Richer
- Independent Researcher, 19 Rue de la République, F-69600 Oullins, France
| | - Cécile Vuillermoz
- Institut Pierre Louis d’Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique (IPLESP), INSERM, Department of Social Epidemiology, Sorbonne Université, F-75012 Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Brunelin
- INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, PSYR2 Team, Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, F-69500 Bron, France
- Centre Hospitalier Le Vinatier, 95 Boulevard Pinel, F-69500 Bron, France
| | - Nathalie Prieto
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Centre Régional du Psychotraumatisme Auvergne Rhône Alpes, F-69437 Lyon, France
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Edouard Herriot, Cellule D’urgences Medico-Psychologiques, F-69437 Lyon, France
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Farrell D, Moran J, Zat Z, Miller PW, Knibbs L, Papanikolopoulos P, Prattos T, McGowan I, McLaughlin D, Barron I, Mattheß C, Kiernan MD. Group early intervention eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy as a video-conference psychotherapy with frontline/emergency workers in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder and moral injury-An RCT study. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1129912. [PMID: 37063579 PMCID: PMC10100089 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1129912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Frontline mental health, emergency, law enforcement, and social workers have faced unprecedented psychological distress in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of the RCT (Randomized Controls Trial) study was to investigate the effectiveness of a Group EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy (Group Traumatic Episode Protocol-GTEP) in the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Moral Injury. The treatment focus is an early intervention, group trauma treatment, delivered remotely as video-conference psychotherapy (VCP). This early intervention used an intensive treatment delivery of 4x2h sessions over 1-week. Additionally, the group EMDR intervention utilized therapist rotation in treatment delivery. Methods The study's design comprised a delayed (1-month) treatment intervention (control) versus an active group. Measurements included the International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ), Generalized Anxiety Disorder Assessment (GAD-7), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Moral Injury Events Scale (MIES), and a Quality-of-Life psychometric (EQ-5D), tested at T0, T1: pre-treatment, T2: post-treatment, T3: 1-month follow-up (FU), T4: 3-month FU, and T5: 6-month FU. The Adverse Childhood Experiences - International version (ACEs), Benevolent Childhood Experience (BCEs) was ascertained at pre-treatment only. N = 85 completed the study. Results Results highlight a significant treatment effect within both active and control groups. Post Hoc comparisons of the ITQ demonstrated a significant difference between T1 pre (mean 36.8, SD 14.8) and T2 post (21.2, 15.1) (t11.58) = 15.68, p < 0.001). Further changes were also seen related to co-morbid factors. Post Hoc comparisons of the GAD-7 demonstrated significant difference between T1 pre (11.2, 4.91) and T2 post (6.49, 4.73) (t = 6.22) = 4.41, p < 0.001; with significant difference also with the PHQ-9 between T1 pre (11.7, 5.68) and T2 post (6.64, 5.79) (t = 6.30) = 3.95, p < 0.001, d = 0.71. The treatment effect occurred irrespective of either ACEs/BCEs during childhood. However, regarding Moral Injury, the MIES demonstrated no treatment effect between T1 pre and T5 6-month FU. The study's findings discuss the impact of Group EMDR therapy delivered remotely as video-conference psychotherapy (VCP) and the benefits of including a therapist/rotation model as a means of treatment delivery. However, despite promising results suggesting a large treatment effect in the treatment of trauma and adverse memories, including co-morbid symptoms, research results yielded no treatment effect in frontline/emergency workers in addressing moral injury related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion The NICE (2018) guidance on PTSD highlighted the paucity of EMDR therapy research used as an early intervention. The primary rationale for this study was to address this critical issue. In summary, treatment results for group EMDR, delivered virtually, intensively, using therapist rotation are tentatively promising, however, the moral dimensions of trauma need consideration for future research, intervention development, and potential for further scalability. The data contributes to the emerging literature on early trauma interventions.Clinical Trial Registration:Clinicaltrials.gov, ISRCTN16933691.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek Farrell
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Johnny Moran
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
| | - Zeynep Zat
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
| | - Paul W. Miller
- School of Nursing, Magee Campus, Ulster University, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Lorraine Knibbs
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
| | - Penny Papanikolopoulos
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
| | - Tessa Prattos
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
| | - Iain McGowan
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Derek McLaughlin
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Ian Barron
- Centre for International Education, College of Education, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Cordula Mattheß
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew D. Kiernan
- Northern Hub for Veteran and Military Families’ Research, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
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Kaptan SK, Yilmaz B, Varese F, Andriopoulou P, Husain N. What works? Lessons from a pretrial qualitative study to inform a multi-component intervention for refugees and asylum seekers: Learning Through Play and EMDR Group Traumatic Episode Protocol. JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 51:361-381. [PMID: 35700344 PMCID: PMC10084026 DOI: 10.1002/jcop.22908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Almost half of the trials failed to recruit their targeted sample size of which 89% could be preventable. Successful implementation of mental health trials in a context of forcibly displaced individuals can be even more challenging. Mental health difficulties have the potential to impact parenting skills, which are linked to poor development in children, while parenting interventions can improve parents' mental health and parenting behaviors. However, the evidence on parenting interventions for refugees is limited. A parenting intervention, Learning Through Play Plus Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Group Treatment Protocol, has been designed to address parental mental health. This pretrial qualitative study, conducted with refugees, asylum seekers and professionals, aimed to explore their perceptions of the intervention and to identify barriers and recommendations for better engagement, recruitment, and delivery. Three themes were generated from thematic analysis: the content of the intervention, suggestions for improvement and implementation, and understanding the role of the facilitator. These themes provided insights into the issues that might predict the barriers for delivery of the intervention and offered several changes, including destigmatization strategies to improve engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safa Kemal Kaptan
- School of Health Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthThe University of ManchesterManchesterUK
| | - Betul Yilmaz
- School of Health Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthThe University of ManchesterManchesterUK
| | - Filippo Varese
- School of Health Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthThe University of ManchesterManchesterUK
- Complex Trauma and Resilience Research UnitGreater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation TrustManchesterUK
| | | | - Nusrat Husain
- School of Health Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and HealthThe University of ManchesterManchesterUK
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Kaptan SK, Varese F, Yilmaz B, Andriopoulou P, Husain N. “Online delivery gave me privacy and distance from others”: feasibility trial and qualitative evaluation of an online intervention for refugees and asylum seekers;
LTP
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EMDR G‐TEP. COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/capr.12580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Safa Kemal Kaptan
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Health Sciences Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester Manchester UK
| | - Filippo Varese
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Health Sciences Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester Manchester UK
- Complex Trauma and Resilience Research Unit Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust Manchester UK
| | - Betul Yilmaz
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Health Sciences Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester Manchester UK
| | | | - Nusrat Husain
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Health Sciences Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester Manchester UK
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14
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Poli A, Gemignani A, Miccoli M. Randomized Trial on the Effects of a Group EMDR Intervention on Narrative Complexity and Specificity of Autobiographical Memories: A Path Analytic and Supervised Machine-Learning Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:7684. [PMID: 35805348 PMCID: PMC9265795 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19137684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Narratives of autobiographical memories may be impaired by adverse childhood experiences, generating narrative fragmentation and increased levels of perceived distress. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) proved to be an effective treatment to overcome traumatic experiences and to promote coherent autobiographical narratives. However, the specific mechanisms by which EMDR promotes narrative coherence remains largely unknown. We conducted a randomized controlled pilot trial (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT05319002) in a non-clinical sample of 27 children recruited in a primary school. Participants were randomly assigned to the experimental and control groups. The experimental group underwent a three-week group EMDR intervention. Subjective unit of distress (SUD), validity of cognition (VoC), classification of autobiographical memories, narrative complexity and specificity were assessed before and after the group EMDR intervention. The group EMDR intervention was able to improve SUD and VoC scales, narrative complexity and specificity, and promoted the classification of autobiographical memories as relational. The path analysis showed that SUD was able to predict VoC and narrative specificity, which, in turn, was able to predict both narrative complexity and the classification of autobiographical memories as relational. Machine-learning analysis showed that random tree classifier outperformed all other models by achieving a 93.33% accuracy. Clinical implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Poli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Angelo Gemignani
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and of Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Mario Miccoli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
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The study of the group intervention containing EMDR therapy for children and mothers in the field of trauma after a mine explosion in Turkey. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF TRAUMA & DISSOCIATION 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejtd.2021.100248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Fogliato E, Invernizzi R, Maslovaric G, Fernandez I, Rigamonti V, Lora A, Frisone E, Pagani M. Promoting Mental Health in Healthcare Workers in Hospitals Through Psychological Group Support With Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing During COVID-19 Pandemic: An Observational Study. Front Psychol 2022; 12:794178. [PMID: 35153919 PMCID: PMC8829464 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.794178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychological support was provided by the Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Integrative Group Treatment Protocol (EMDR-IGTP) within the hospitals in the Northern Italy in favor of healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of treatment in terms of (a) symptomatology reduction related to peri- and post-traumatic stress; (b) clinical improvement over time; and (c) the maintenance of the achieved outcome over time. METHODS The population was composed of healthcare workers who spontaneously requested psychological intervention in both the first and the second emergency waves. Statistical analyses were carried out to highlight the differences in Impact of Event-Revised (IES-R) and Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI) before and after the group intervention. RESULTS In both the first and the second waves, pre-treatment values are higher than post-treatment values for all dimensions of the IES-R. The results show that there are no significant differences between the first and the second wave with regard to the treatment effect. Healthcare workers maintained positive changes over time despite their prolonged exposure to an emergency and the possibility of retraumatization at the onset of a new emergency phase, irrespective of their working place. Healthcare workers who were treated in the first wave showed at the beginning of the second emergency wave less vulnerability and more resilience than those who were treated only in the second wave.Pre-treatment scores of healthcare workers affected by COVID-19 are discussed. CONCLUSION COVID-19 had a significant impact on the well-being of healthcare workers who were working in hospitals. Psychological support in case of emergency is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Marco Pagani
- Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Rome, Italy
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Kemal Kaptan S, Brayne M. A qualitative study on clinicians’ perceptions of Attachment‐Focused eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy. COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/capr.12479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Safa Kemal Kaptan
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health School of Health Sciences Manchester Academic Health Science Centre The University of Manchester Manchester UK
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Abstract
Unlike high-intensity treatment, in which clients have face-to-face contact with a mental health specialist, clients in low-intensity treatment have limited or no contact with a specialist. Instead, their treatment is usually provided through self-help procedures, which are delivered via (guided) computer programs, books, or “mHealth" apps. Other treatments sometimes considered low-intensity are brief treatments, group therapy, and interventions delivered by nonspecialists. Advantages include effectiveness, accessibility, efficiency, and affordability. Concerns related to safety, engagement, and adherence to self-help programs may be addressed by (asynchronous) therapist guidance. This article describes low-intensity treatments and their relevance for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Hundreds of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have found self-help interventions to be efficacious, with many producing the same level of results as the traditional face-to-face procedure. Guided self-help cognitive behavioral therapy is recommended for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder in the guidelines of both the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and International Society of Traumatic Stress Studies. Only three self-help-EMDR RCTs have been conducted. This author advocates for reconceptualizing EMDR group therapy as “guided self-help-EMDR therapy,” because it is a highly manualized, heavily scripted treatment in which the client works independently on their own material. In this respect, it offers an excellent template for the future development of efficacious low-intensity EMDR interventions. Developing safe, easy-to-use, affordable, and readily available low-intensity interventions will make effective EMDR treatment available to many millions of people around the world.
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