Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing for depressed individuals with multiple sclerosis: A pilot study
Description
Background
Multiple studies have highlighted elevated rates of depression among individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), with its associated symptoms posing a significant threat to overall well-being. Moreover, existing literature suggests a potential interconnection between depressive manifestations and the decline of physical functionalities in the context of MS.
Objective
To examine the viability of the Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy protocol for the treatment of depressive disorders (DeprEND) for alleviating depression in individuals with MS.
Methods
We conducted a process–outcome study to examine the feasibilty and effectiveness DeprEND enrolling 13 individuals with MS and depressive symtpoms. Psychological and physical assessment pre-, post-intervention and 3-month follow-up were included. Pre- and post-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were conducted to analyze potential alterations in brain function.
Results
The EMDR DeprEND treatment showed a high level of adherence and feasibility. Significant reductions in depressive symptoms were found at post-intervention and at 3 months follow-up. No significant differences were observed in terms of physical symptoms. A significant modulation observed in parietal and premotor areas when examining negative valence stimuli post-treatment was found.
Conclusion
For The EMDR DeprEND protocol may represent a feasible and cost-effective treatment for reducing depressive symptoms in MS patients and improving their mental well-being.
Multiple studies have highlighted elevated rates of depression among individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), with its associated symptoms posing a significant threat to overall well-being. Moreover, existing literature suggests a potential interconnection between depressive manifestations and the decline of physical functionalities in the context of MS.
Objective
To examine the viability of the Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy protocol for the treatment of depressive disorders (DeprEND) for alleviating depression in individuals with MS.
Methods
We conducted a process–outcome study to examine the feasibilty and effectiveness DeprEND enrolling 13 individuals with MS and depressive symtpoms. Psychological and physical assessment pre-, post-intervention and 3-month follow-up were included. Pre- and post-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were conducted to analyze potential alterations in brain function.
Results
The EMDR DeprEND treatment showed a high level of adherence and feasibility. Significant reductions in depressive symptoms were found at post-intervention and at 3 months follow-up. No significant differences were observed in terms of physical symptoms. A significant modulation observed in parietal and premotor areas when examining negative valence stimuli post-treatment was found.
Conclusion
For The EMDR DeprEND protocol may represent a feasible and cost-effective treatment for reducing depressive symptoms in MS patients and improving their mental well-being.
Format
Journal
Language
English
Original Work Citation
Rovaris, M., Toselli, E., Mendozzi, L., Di Tella, S., Pirastru, A., Blasi, V., Baglio, F., ... Cavalera, C. (2024). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing for depressed individuals with multiple sclerosis: A pilot study. Multiple Schlerosis Journal. doi:10.1177/135245852412302
Citation
“Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing for depressed individuals with multiple sclerosis: A pilot study,” Francine Shapiro Library, accessed May 17, 2024, https://francineshapirolibrary.omeka.net/items/show/28820.