Treatment augmentation effects of EMDR intervention after traumatic experiences in patients with major depression: a case series

Abstract

Depression is a frequent disorder that may have a recurring and chronic course with a potentially serious impact on morbidity and mortality. While around half of the patients show an inadequate response to initial antidepressant therapy, as many as 20% of patients with chronic depression do not benefit from any other alternative drugs. In this case series, three patients diagnosed with depression were treated with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Three women (aged 28-44 years) diagnosed with depression were admitted to EMDR therapy. All patients actually underwent antidepressant treatment. Two patients received 150mg/day venlafaxine and mirtazapine, one patient 300mg/day bupropion and 30mg/day mirtazapine. Six to eight sessions of EMDR were applied to the patients. Before and after treatment, patients completed Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). After treatment, there was a statistically significant reduction in patient-reported BDI, BAI, and STAI scores. EMDR therapy augmentation was effective in the treatment of patients with depression.