The use of EMDR with refugees

How can refugees be helped? How can those supporting them be helped?

Abstract

While the war in Ukraine rages, aid workers across Europe are working to support millions of people forced to flee their homes. Such distressing and prolonged experiences require measures to prevent the development of psychological disorders and promote the mental health of all victims. In this context, EMDR appears to be the therapy of choice for treating and dealing with the traumatic experiences of both refugees and those providing support. In this article, after a short theoretical introduction looking at the phases of trauma and the grieving process, the author explains the most effective first-aid measures using EMDR to support refugees and those helping them. In this type of emergency, aid workers are at risk of suffering indirect traumatization from the constant stress to which they are subjected. Therefore, it is of vital importance that targeted supportive measures are developed to strengthen the resilience of those providing support.