Anxiety is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can interfere with daily activities, relationships, and overall quality of life. At Athens Recovery, we understand the impact that anxiety can have on those struggling with addiction, which is why we offer eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy as a treatment option. EMDR therapy has been shown to provide relief from anxiety symptoms and support addiction recovery, and if you’re looking for an effective way to address your anxiety, it could be the right choice for you.
Call Athens Recovery at 844.959.4998 or connect with us online today if you’re ready to begin your journey to recovery.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy is a type of psychotherapy that helps individuals process traumatic events that have been stored in the brain in an unhealthy way. During EMDR therapy, the therapist will guide the client through a series of eye movements while recalling a traumatic event. The goal of EMDR therapy is to help the brain reprocess the traumatic event in a way that is healthier and more adaptive. EMDR therapy has been found to be effective in treating numerous mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
EMDR Therapy for Anxiety
Anxiety is a common condition that can manifest in a variety of ways, including panic attacks, phobias, social anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). EMDR therapy has been shown to be effective in treating anxiety by addressing the underlying traumatic experiences that may be contributing to the anxiety. EMDR therapy helps the individual reprocess these traumatic experiences in a safe and controlled environment, which can lead to a reduction in anxiety symptoms. EMDR therapy has also been shown to be effective in reducing the intensity and frequency of panic attacks.
A few of the benefits of EMDR therapy for anxiety include:
- Decreased levels of stress and anxiety
- Improved ability to cope with stressful situations
- Increased self-esteem and confidence
- Enhanced sense of control over one’s life
As part of a well-rounded treatment plan for anxiety, EMDR therapy can be an effective way to reduce symptoms and improve overall quality of life.
The Connection Between Anxiety and Addiction
Anxiety and addiction often go hand in hand. Many people turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate their anxiety symptoms, which can quickly spiral out of control and lead to addiction. Conversely, addiction can also cause anxiety as individuals become dependent on the substance and fear withdrawal symptoms. EMDR therapy can help break this cycle by addressing the underlying trauma that may be contributing to both anxiety and addiction. By reprocessing the traumatic experiences, individuals can learn healthier coping mechanisms for their anxiety symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse.
Anxiety can also bring with it physical symptoms, such as muscle tension or headaches. It’s common for those who struggle with anxiety to worry that these physical symptoms could be caused by something else. EMDR therapy can help address these physical symptoms as well, helping individuals to feel more in control of their bodies and reduce stress levels.
Reach Out to Athens Recovery to Get Started
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety and addiction, EMDR therapy may be able to help. At Athens Recovery, we offer a range of evidence-based treatments to support addiction recovery, including EMDR therapy. Our team of licensed therapists and counselors is trained in EMDR therapy and can help you address the underlying trauma that may be contributing to your anxiety and addiction. Contact us today by calling 844.959.4998 or reach out online to learn more about our programs and start your journey to recovery.