EMDR, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing are a non-invasive technique which some psychologists use in their practice. The technique has been around since the 1970s but has only recently gained recognition as an effective treatment option. Research has shown that EMDR has a high success rate. However, some EMDR therapy may cause some common EMDR therapy side effects.
This article will outline the common EMDR therapy side effects and discuss ways to avoid them. It should be noted, however, that the treatment is still a widely accepted treatment for a variety of conditions.
One of the commonest and most unpleasant side effects of EMDR treatment is eye redness. Eye redness is often experienced by patients in a very short period after treatment. However, it is important to note that it can also occur several weeks or even months after the session. This is because the EMDR therapist must be able to identify the particular problem areas of the patient’s eye first. This is the reason that many practitioners insist on a series of sessions in order to get to know their patient.
It is important to note, however, that eye redness associated with EMDR treatment does not necessarily indicate a symptom of a more serious problem. In fact, the majority of eye redness that occurs after EMDR treatment is actually a result of the patient not noticing that he or she is red. It is during the treatment that the patient may begin to experience problems such as headaches and feeling dizzy, just to mention but a few.
Although most ophthalmologists can’t directly pinpoint the cause of the eye redness, they do agree that the best way to combat the problem is to make the patient aware of it. To do this, it is recommended that the patient has a constant supply of eye drops ready at all times. The eye drops act as a lubricant so that the patient can keep his eyes dry and clear for better vision and help to reduce the appearance of eye redness.
Eye redness associated with EMDR therapy may also be caused by an allergic reaction to the solution used to numb the eyes during treatment. Most eye drops are not considered to be a true solution because they do not provide a level of relief which is comparable to that of drugs. A solution containing benzodiazepines and caffeine is commonly used to reduce the eye redness.
Another possible cause of the redness is the inability of the patient to relax. This problem can be helped by some relaxation techniques, such as hypnosis.
There are other possible causes of the eye redness that can occur after treatment but it is not always appropriate to list them here. It is suggested, however, that patients who have a history of eye problems be checked by a qualified doctor before beginning EMDR therapy.
If the eye redness is caused by a serious medical condition, such as cancer, the treatment should be stopped immediately. In such cases, EMDR therapy should be stopped and the patient should see a specialist for further treatment.
In addition to red eyes, there are other signs and symptoms that may be present when patients begin to experience symptoms following eye EMDR therapy. These include eye puffiness and dryness. Other signs include blurred vision, headaches, blurred vision or migraine, nausea and difficulty concentrating.
In some cases, the eyes may become infected or irritated. This condition is more likely to happen if the patient had an allergic reaction to a solution used in the treatment process. In addition to these problems, the eyes may also feel irritated and the eyelid droops over time.
There are many reasons why eye redness may occur following eye EMDR treatment. As stated earlier, it is important for the patient to be aware of the potential cause and to see a qualified doctor or ophthalmologist.
To treat tinnitus; which is defined as the persistent noise in the ear or a continual noise in the ear, e.g. a ringing or roaring, usually caused by damage to the hair cells of the inner ear. I believe that if the ear is resonating, it could potentially disrupt the balancing of the person affected.
EMDR, or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing was originally designed to reduce the effect of trauma experienced by an individual. I believe the same EMDR technique could be used by certified professionals to manage and assist anyone suffering from tinnitus by trying to control how your mind react to the ringing. After all, the brain controls what happen in the human body, so why not use it for the said purpose. To clarify my take on the subject, let’s quickly look at how tinnitus occurs as well as the link between the brain that controls the different part of the body.
How does Tinnitus Occur? Tinnitus in itself is not a disease, but a condition that could be as result of blunt trauma, blast, neurological damage (multiple sclerosis), ear infections, oxidation stress, foreign objects in the ear, nasal allergies that prevent (or induce) fluid drain, wax build-up, exposure to loud sounds and many more reasons. My focus is more about people who sustained some sort of seen and unseen trauma that resulted in the ringing of the inner ear.
Tinnitus Prevention, Cure, and Management
In our modern world, ringing in the ear is really an issue to stress about and that is why it’s good to have ready made information on how to cure tinnitus. Treatment, prevention, and management options are mentioned below.
1. Tinnitus Homeopathic – Homeopathic Treatment for Tinnitus
Numerous option treatments have been created over the years by frustrated tinnitus sufferers ranging from sound feedback devices to adjustments in the diet to homeopathic treatment for tinnitus.
Even though many tinnitus sufferers do get relief from a homeopathic treatment for tinnitus, some need to seek relief elsewhere. As is my theory on these option treatments for tinnitus, individuals need to have an open mind to different treatment choices, and should be willing to experiment – a homeopathic treatment for tinnitus can certainly be a good location to commence.
Whilst there are numerous sellers of homeopathic remedies for tinnitus, most have numerous widespread ingredients that have been proven to offer relief to some tinnitus sufferers. They are listed below.
– Calcarea carbonica is impure calcium carbonate, essentially made from the middle layer of shells. This means you cannot use this option if you are allergic to Shell Fish. Calcarea carbonica is appropriate for those who are usually “chilly” and have trouble keeping warm. It’s one of the three most essential homeopathic remedies, along with Lycopodium and Sulphur. Calcarea carbonica is very common and it comes in many different types and is readily obtainable (Always consult with your primary care provider before you use any kind of over the counter medication. What worked for someone else might not work for you). Side effects are minimal due to the fact that so small of the original substance is within the finished product.
– Cinchona, or quinine bark, is one of the much more famous rain forest plants. It is used as a tonic, digestive stimulant, and a fever reducer. It also can regulate the heart, and calm the nerves.
– Chininum sulphuricum also referred to as Sulphite of Quinine is utilized for pain in forehead, vertigo & facial pulsation, and itching skin.
– Graphites are a form of carbon found in pencils and are employed for skin complaints and problems with metabolism. Actually, in homeopathic medicine, carbons are usually really popular.
– Kali carbonicum. Also known as Carbonate of Potash, this is another variant of carbon within the treatment of tinnitus.
– Kali Iodium; commonly employed for tinnitus issues and thyroid imbalances.
– Lycopodium – An Alpine club moss, the spores of this moss are ground up and dried for homeopathic uses.
– Salicylicium acidum – Used almost exclusively for ear care and relief from the noises of tinnitus.
When it comes to homeopathic treatment for tinnitus, these ingredients are usually found in most of the much more highly regarded homeopathic recipes.
In Summary:
For the majority of tinnitus sufferers, there’s no medical cure. You can only manage your symptoms.
Do’s And Don’ts Of Self Improvement – For best results, use positive thinking and other personal development techniques to change and improve your self and your life. This article includes many simple and useful tips for you to start your personal development, change your character and way of thinking, and improve your lifestyle.
Stress is what often brings down happiness. When we are stressed out, it harms us mentally and physically. For us to retain clarity of our minds and the motivation to work towards our goals, it is critical to banish unnecessary stress from our minds. Each day, take time to quiet your mind and relax. Having time to refresh can give you peace and improve your self-image.
Avoiding decisions means missing opportunities in the arena of personal development. Do not be afraid to make decisions, even if you do not have all of the information that you need to be sure of the decision. Decisions that succeed create good instincts. Even choices with less favorable outcomes are useful because they allow the decision-maker to learn from the mistake. Think of your bad decisions as possibilities you have eliminated.
Identify what is keeping you from being successful. Doing this is extremely hard for a lot of people. However, if you can figure out what your weakness is, it’s the first step needed to change it. Take care to eliminate the obstacles that stand between you and the future that you wish to have.
Ask Yourself
Leadership is essential for your self-improvement. The best definition of leadership is “influence.” Review your total experiences as a leader. Think about the circumstances that have had the most influence in your life. Consider how you have grown because of these events. Ask yourself which qualities make you a good leader. Ask yourself these questions to see how you will be as a member of a team.
Exercise is for everyone, not just people who are trying to lose a few pounds. There are many physical and mental benefits to a regular exercise program. Exercise helps get your body to make chemicals that trigger a more calming and happier effect on you.
Write up a motivational speech for yourself. Make a self-empowering post-it note or note card. Have it with you at all times, and look at it when you want some inspiration. Take it a step further and record yourself reading your list. What are the benefits of this?
Believe that your future can improve over your past. Try to see each day as a way to improve. In whatever you do, try to do it better than you ever have before.
Take stock of your alcohol use to see if you are drinking too much. The harmful ingredients in cigarettes can cause COPD, cancer and a massive list of other diseases. The human body is sacred, and it is essential that you treat your body right. If you want to start improving your life, you have to stop engaging in harmful activities. Take an honest inventory of your life to see where you can make improvements.
Learn how to deal with situations rationally. You can learn this kind of skill from others or teach yourself. If you can keep your cool in times of stress, you can overcome a variety of obstacles. Rhythmic deep breathing will help you regain control and remain self-assured.
Identify which things in life are the most important to you, then focus on obtaining and maintaining them. If you direct your energy towards what is most important and stop focusing on the other negative aspects of your existence, you will lead a happier and more peaceful life.
Credit Card Bills
Comfort shopping is not a good idea. If you spend your time doing some hobby instead of running up your credit card bills, you will find that you will not have those high credit card bills to stress you out. There will also be less clutter around your home to clean up.
Try to get more organized. Completing an organization project will make you feel confident and productive. The organization can make you feel considerably less stressed, which then increases your sense of well-being. When things have a place and are organized, you will feel calmer in your surroundings.
Finding ways to live a healthier life will also help you in your self-improvement endeavors. Everyone feels better when they in are healthy. Your mind is less cloudy, and you can even gain more free time and cut down on expenses because you won’t need to visit the doctor as frequently. In other words, better health is one of the most gratifying goals you can achieve.
You should have some ideas on how you can fix the parts of your life that are dragging you down, whether it’s your attitude or habits. Begin today to change yourself and start living a more fulfilling life.
Sometimes, the incident that occurred in our past tends to hold us back in our everyday life.
Talk to your therapist about using EMDR Therapy as an alternative to boost your personal development by forgetting your traumatic past.
Nutrition and supplements labs have been at the forefront of producing that incipient free nutritional foods that help one to fight disturbances and illnesses no matter what your age is. The herbal range of medicines are equally famous for the way they help one to reduce antioxidants, anxiety, and many more mental fatigues It is the no compromise attitude and commitment to quality that has made them the leaders in the medical field.
In the area of health supplements, the body is constantly in need of enzymes, amino acids, and antioxidants which are supposed to be gotten from regular food, fruits, and vegetable. How many people on the planet ever have the opportunity to eat a balanced diet? Not much if you ask me. With the invention of these Nutrition labs, several multivitamins have been produced and perfected to help alleviate many sicknesses, flu and more. Multivitamin have been some of the basic ingredients that support mental medications, according to an article I read in the NewsDay when I traveled to Europe. Probiotics, herbs, and Omega 3-6-9 are also part of what aid in the healing of sensitive tissues. Preparation good for Hormones, pain and memory are available.
Supplements of BCAA
Supplements of BCAA
For people who have rigorous workout schedules, especially military guys, the supplements of BCAA, meal supplement and electrolytes are as essential as the muscle building and protein packs. Muscles need a lot of replenishment and the body will be starved for energy and so these are essential. One could order packs that one has before a workout or the ones that are required after a workout. The metabolism of men is very different from that of a woman and so the nutrition also varies accordingly. This particular article is directed to men, and not women.
People who have regular fitness programs need regular doses of electrolytes, BCAA, and meal replacement packages. There are some that are muscle building packages and some that are protein packs. These are needed if you are working on building the muscles. These are also available as pre-exercise and post-exercise supplements for the right kind of muscle gain. Men and women need a different kind of nutrition and the packs are different mainly because their metabolism is totally different. Always as your doctors or physician before you ingest any kind of multi-vitamins, no matter how promising it may sound!
The last time I visited one of the large multivitamins stores in the city, I discovered that most or all of their products are in quantum-state besides being excipient free. Hard-to-digest material like silicon dioxide and magnesium stearate which are nonnutritive are absent. So the quality remains good. These find uses in cases where the patient have the need for blood support or have anemia. It is also used by those who have allergies, so be careful to watch what is on the label of your medication before you make your purchase.
Supplements, PTSD, and Mental Disorder
In summary, this article is to enlighten those that are just recovering from PTSD and any kind of mental disorder to desist from buying over the counter medications as you can never be too sure of how your body would react with the contents of the multivitamins; some of which I mentioned above. What you see is not always what you get at the counter. Most patients tend to buy over the counter medication to supplement their workout, or maybe to boost their self-ego among their peers . Either way, ask your primary care provider before you buy. I wrote this article from my own personal experience.
DISCLAIMER:
Remember; whatever you read on this Web site is only from the writer’s view and nothing more! Consult primary care provider before you use any over the counter medication, even before you make your purchase. There is no harm is asking. It only makes you stronger in decision making. Till I hear from you, it’s bye for now.
How to Overcome Alcohol Addiction – Photo by MART PRODUCTION on Pexels.com
Many people turn to alcohol because they do not feel connected to others. It is not a solution for their loneliness and can make them feel more at ease in social situations. In addition, it makes them more comfortable and relaxed in social situations, which is why they become addicted to alcohol. This can lead to a lifelong drinking problem. Even though the process of stopping a drinking habit is not easy, it is not impossible. If you’ve been struggling with this addiction, there are a number of ways that you can start the process.
Options for Treating Alcohol Addiction
You can choose a residential treatment or a partial hospitalization program. A residential treatment program may require you to live at the facility for a period of 30-90 days. A primary care doctor will diagnose underlying problems that make you vulnerable to relapse. A partial hospitalization program focuses on relapse prevention and will require you to live at home and be away from distractions. Some residential treatment programs are designed for people with unstable living arrangements.
While there is no cure for alcohol addiction, the symptoms of withdrawal and tolerance are common to those suffering from it. The withdrawal symptoms of alcohol use can include nausea, sweating, and confusion. In extreme cases, an alcohol addict will experience hallucinations, delirium, and seizures. These withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening. While the effects of alcohol abuse are mostly temporary, they can be devastating and lead to a lifetime of consequences.
In the latter case, a person suffering from alcohol addiction will likely suffer from severe withdrawal symptoms. Depending on the extent of alcohol intake, there is a range of treatments available. However, an individual may require ongoing therapy and treatment. As an individual who struggles with alcoholism, you may choose an outpatient rehab program. Aside from outpatient rehab, an individual might also be required to go through therapy. If the problem is not serious, an outpatient treatment program might be the right choice.
Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction
Symptoms of alcohol addiction vary according to the severity of the problem. Some alcohol abusers are more likely to die from an overdose than others. They are also more likely to suffer from physical health problems. Aside from these symptoms, alcohol dependence can also affect relationships. In the long run, alcoholics who are addicted to alcohol can also be more likely to engage in criminal activities. There are many ways to overcome this condition.
There are two main types of alcohol addiction. Firstly, alcoholics should take medication and undergo medical detox. For those suffering from serious alcohol dependency, an outpatient treatment facility should be considered. Another option is an outpatient treatment program. This type of treatment requires a doctor’s approval. A patient suffering from alcoholism must consult a physician before beginning the treatment. Although a medical detox is the most effective way to treat alcoholism, an outpatient facility may be the best option.
In addition to medication, alcoholism is a serious illness, causing mental, emotional, and social problems. Moreover, a person suffering from alcoholism should also consider the option of outpatient treatment. Taking a drug or alcohol addiction treatment is a necessity to get rid of the disease. A physician may prescribe the best treatment for an individual. If a patient does not respond to an outpatient program, a doctor should be consulted.
There are many types of alcohol treatment. Some people may be able to stop drinking without alcohol alone, while others may require medical assistance and alcohol treatment. Aside from medication, a medical professional can help with this. If you want to avoid outpatient treatment, you can opt for residential treatment. A doctor can determine which type of alcohol addiction treatment is best for you. If you do not want to undergo surgery or undergo detoxification, you can consider outpatient alcohol rehab.
Alcohol Addiction, Symptoms, Treatment, and Help
In conclusion, the first step in alcohol addiction treatment is the recognition of the problem. You must be aware of the fact that the disease may have a long-term effect on your life. While you may not realize it, alcoholism will eventually destroy your life. While you can hide the condition from others, you should also talk to your GP or a specialist in the field. Your GP can refer you to a rehabilitation center. It is an effective way to stop an alcoholic from living a normal life. As bonus content, check out how Claudia Christian overcame alcoholism.
MOVE!® Coach is a weight loss app for Veterans, service members, their families, and others who want to lose weight. This 19-week program guides the participants to achieve success with weight loss through education, and the use of tools, in an easy and convenient way. Participants can monitor, track, and receive feedback regarding their progress with weight, diet, and exercise goals.
https://youtu.be/xReplSA57_g
FEATURES:
Self-Management Guides – educate the participant on a variety of weight-management success strategies using videos, worksheets, games, and other tools. Guides will be made available weekly or bi-weekly, based on your progression through the 19-week program.
Weight, Diet, and Physical Activity Diaries – for daily tracking of weight, diet, and physical activity
My Goals and Progress – participants can set weight loss and SMART goals, and see progress reports and summaries
How to Solve Problems – additional resources for overcoming barriers This app can be used by itself, but the additional benefits may be achieved if used in combination with treatment with your healthcare provider.
Bipolar Disorder – Many people who find themselves suffering from severe mood swings, sudden shifts in activity level, extreme feelings of ecstasy and equally extreme feelings of depression are wondering whether or not such conditions are normal or are manifestations of the most serious ailment called bipolar disorder.
Indeed, bipolar disorder behavior can be quite ambiguous. They can be telling of something that is ingrained in our humanity, or they can be symptoms of an abnormal behavior screaming for treatment. So how can you tell if what you’re enduring is a bipolar disorder or not?
Bipolar Disorder Simple Test: Is There A Reason?
Usual mood swings, depressions, happiness or tiredness are experienced because they are caused by some factor or another. You may get depressed because someone hurt your feelings, for example. You may feel happy because someone told you something nice. You may lose all your energy because of the efforts you have exerted for a particular task. Regardless of what causes your mood swing, the integral factor is: there is a cause for the same.
Bipolar disorder behavior, on the other hand, is experienced by the patient for no reason whatsoever. It just happens. The subject may be feeling giddy happy one moment, and inconsolably depressed the next. He may feel hyperactive in the morning and completely fatigued by midday. He may be extremely happy during the start of the conversation, and all of a sudden, he’d turn raving mad. And all of these are experienced without reason for their sudden eruption.
So if you’re in the middle of an emotional upheaval that you know will result in misery-filled feelings, as yourself this question: is there a reason for what you’re going through?
If there is a reason for the feelings you’re enduring, then you can stop worrying. It’s normal. It’s the human condition. We feel because we’re alive, after all. We feel pain when we’re poked. We feel joy when someone does for us a good deed. We feel angry when provoked. It’s a natural cycle.
If there are no reasons for the feelings you’re going through, then chances are, you’re experiencing bipolar disorder behavior. It’s something pathological, and it’s something that will require treatment. You don’t have to do it alone. Many people are willing to help you out. But first, it’s up to you to acknowledge the existence of the problem. You must be the one to take that first step towards a solution.
Ibogaine – Most of the people associate with the abuse of harmful drugs and liquor with rock and roll (and by extension, to stars and other celebrities).
As the chosen lifestyle of these people definitely causes them to be prone to substance abuse, ordinary people can also make the exact same mistakes.
Up against problems and with the lack of a reliable support system, most people rely on drugs or alcohol to get a temporary false perception of comfort. It might be your office mate, neighbor or a much loved one(s).
When you know an individual who is coping with drug abuse problem, it is always good to discover that there’s an effective treatment solution to assist them to restore their foothold in their lives: ibogaine. There is nothing worse than seeing a family member succumb to drug and alcohol abuse besides seeing them get better and afterwards relapse on their old habit. It happens all the time, especially with soldiers. Ibogaine is derived from the Iboga plant which is native to Africa. The residents used the plant simply because of its healing qualities and also for spiritual rituals.
Under western culture, the plant’s derivatives have been used to come up with drugs for dieting and for a solution for people struggling with chronic depression. Today, this drug is referred to as among the most efficient methods to treat people obsessed with heroin, Oxycontin, cocaine, methamphetamine and much more.
How exactly does it work? The medicine functions upon the dopamine receptors inside the brain. These receptors are responsible for the feeling of craving among addicts. Dopamine receptors also are liable for the negative impacts of withdrawal which many drug users who try to wean off their addiction experience. Since these receptors are already blocked, the patient’s body can get rid of the drugs outside of his or her system with no related withdrawal effects.
It’s also beneficial to notice that patients that have used this drug report of having lucid dreams. This is particularly helpful throughout the counseling sessions of the patients, as they try and determine primary issues which must be remedied to reach the primary cause of the addiction problem.
Ibogaine Benefit
The greatest thing about this medicine is that when it is used to remedy folks who suffer from drug and alcohol abuse, as opposed to traditional treatment methods, the rate of success is stated to be from 60% to 80%. You will find some caveats, though. First, because this medicine is classified as being a schedule 1 drug, you’ll need to go overseas to acquire this treatment. Second, people who have specific heart or liver conditions are advised against undergoing this type of treatment method. The same goes for people who are excessively thin or people who are overweight. Other than that, there were no reported noteworthy undesirable side effects.
DISCLAIMER:
The writer is simply a health enthusiast and not a medical practitioner, nor a qualified adviser agent. The use of this information is strictly at your own risk.
Understanding how to rewire your brain can help you bounce back from a traumatic experience. During combat or other violent situations, your brain changes its rhythms, resulting in post-traumatic stress disorder.
The good news is that you can rewire your brain to help you fight PTSD and cope better with it. Many therapists can help you rewire your brain and your mind with techniques that can be used to treat PTSD. Luckily, you don’t really need to go to a professional to achieve this aim.
According to the National Library of Medicine, MRI images and findings of a person suffering from PTSD show the brain’s prefrontal cortex and amygdala are disrupted. When the right frontal cortex (the watchtower) is activated, and the left frontal cortex (the fire alarm) becomes dim, then rewiring is needed to prevent the traumatic brain event from repeating itself in the future.
Rewire Through Assisted Therapy This process involves the use of medication and a combination of a process called EMDR. EMDR – Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, which uses guided eye movements to teach the brain how to deal with traumatic memories, can help you overcome these symptoms. Read more about EMDR here.
Exposure Therapy Using exposure therapy, psychologists can help people change their thinking patterns and rewire their brains to fight PTSD. This approach relies on the experimental paradigm of extinction learning.
Rewire Your Brain Through Neurofeedback The treatment for PTSD isn’t a simple fix. While some medications will only temporarily relieve your symptoms, neurofeedback can help you heal from PTSD. During a neurofeedback session, you’ll be able to control your emotions.
Rewire Through Assisted Therapy This process involves the use of medication and a combination of a process called EMDR. EMDR – Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, which uses guided eye movements to teach the brain how to deal with traumatic memories, can help you overcome these symptoms. Read more about EMDR here.
Exposure Therapy Using exposure therapy, psychologists can help people change their thinking patterns and rewire their brains to fight PTSD. This approach relies on the experimental paradigm of extinction learning.
Rewire Your Brain Through Neurofeedback The treatment for PTSD isn’t a simple fix. While some medications will only temporarily relieve your symptoms, neurofeedback can help you heal from PTSD. During a neurofeedback session, you’ll be able to control your emotions.
Dr. Caroline Leaf’s Book “Switch on Your Brain: The Key to Peak Happiness, Thinking, and Health,” offers strategies to rewire the brain and eliminate anxiety, trauma, shame, and bad habits.
“MRI findings have implicated that brain regions associated with PTSD pathophysiology include the medial and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, orbitofrontal cortex, insula, lentiform nucleus, amygdala, hippocampus and parahippocampus, anterior and posterior cingulate cortex, precuneus, cuneus, fusiform and lingual gyri, and the white matter tracts connecting these brain regions” (nih.gov).
When the amygdala is overactive, the window of tolerance for new information is reduced. People with PTSD have difficulty focusing, learning new information, and managing logical thought. Using trauma-informed treatments can help you rewire your brain.
The first step is to be self-aware of your triggers and understand why you may react to them in certain ways. This can be challenging, but it is necessary to remember that the amygdala is responsible for processing emotions and memories.
How to Rewire Your Brain by Using Dr. Caroline’s Method
The first solution to rewiring your brain is by reading a book by Dr. Caroline. “Switch on Your Brain: The Key to Peak Happiness, Thinking, and Health.” The book offers strategies to rewire the brain and eliminate anxiety, trauma, shame, and bad habits. The book focuses on the power of thoughts and how they affect the brain’s structure and function. Dr. Leaf explains that by changing our thinking patterns, we can change our brain structure, leading to positive changes in our behavior and emotions.
Dr. Caroline introduces a 5-step process called the “Switch on Your Brain 5-Step Learning Process,” which involves gathering information about the situation, focusing on the positive and constructive thoughts and emotions that you want to have, understanding the biological and spiritual aspects of the brain and the mind-body connection, using your memory to create repetition and practice to strengthen new neural pathways, and finally the application phase which includes incorporating the new thinking patterns into your daily life to form new habits.
Gathering: Becoming Aware of Our Negative Thought Patterns and Emotions
In this step, the goal is to become aware of our negative thought patterns and emotions. Dr. Leaf emphasizes the importance of being mindful of our thoughts and emotions because they have a direct impact on our brain structure and function.
Negative thoughts and emotions, such as anxiety, trauma, shame, and bad habits, can create toxic patterns in the brain that can lead to negative behaviors and emotions. By becoming aware of these negative patterns, we can begin to change them.
Dr. Leaf suggests that we start by observing our thoughts and emotions throughout the day. We can write them down or simply take mental notes of them. It’s important not to judge or suppress these thoughts and emotions but to simply observe them and acknowledge their presence.
By gathering information about our negative thought patterns and emotions, we can begin to identify triggers and patterns. This information can then be used in the subsequent steps of the learning process to help us rewire our brains and create positive changes in our behavior and emotions.
The gathering step is an essential first step in the process of rewiring the brain. It requires self-awareness and a willingness to observe and acknowledge our negative thought patterns and emotions without judgment.
Focusing: Directing Our Attention to the Positive and Constructive Thoughts and Emotions We Want to Have
In this step, the goal is to direct our attention to the positive and constructive thoughts and emotions we want to have. Dr. Leaf emphasizes that where we focus our attention has a direct impact on our brain structure and function. If we focus on negative thoughts and emotions, we reinforce negative neural pathways in the brain. However, if we focus on positive thoughts and emotions, we can create new and positive neural pathways.
Dr. Leaf suggests that we start by identifying the thoughts and emotions we want to cultivate. For example, instead of focusing on anxiety or shame, we might focus on feelings of calm or self-acceptance. We can then practice directing our attention to these positive thoughts and emotions throughout the day.
One technique Dr. Leaf recommends for focusing is called “the 21-day detox,” where you will intentionally focus on positive thoughts and emotions for 21 days straight. By doing this, you can begin to create new neural pathways in the brain, reinforcing positive thoughts and emotions and weakening negative ones.
Dr. Leaf also suggests using affirmations and visualization to help focus on positive thoughts and emotions. We can create affirmations that reinforce positive beliefs about ourselves and visualize positive outcomes to reinforce positive emotions.
The focusing step is all about intentionally directing our attention to positive thoughts and emotions to create new neural pathways in the brain. With practice and repetition, this can lead to positive changes in our behavior and emotions.
Understanding: Learning About the Biological and Spiritual Aspects of the Brain and the Mind-Body Connection
In this step, the goal is to learn about the biological and spiritual aspects of the brain and the mind-body connection. Dr. Leaf emphasizes the importance of understanding how our thoughts and emotions affect our brain structure and function.
Dr. Leaf explains that our brain is constantly changing and adapting based on our experiences and thoughts. Our thoughts and emotions create neural pathways in the brain, which can either be positive or negative. By understanding how our thoughts and emotions affect our brains, we can begin to take control of our mental and emotional well-being.
Dr. Leaf also emphasizes the importance of the mind-body connection. She explains that our thoughts and emotions have a direct impact on our physical health. Negative thoughts and emotions can lead to physical symptoms, such as headaches or stomachaches. On the other hand, positive thoughts and emotions can improve our physical health and well-being.
One way to gain a better understanding of the brain and the mind-body connection is to read books or attend seminars on the topic. Dr. Leaf’s book, “Switch On Your Brain,” is a great resource for learning about the brain and the mind-body connection.
Another way to gain a better understanding is to practice mindfulness and meditation. Mindfulness involves being present at the moment and observing our thoughts and emotions without judgment. By practicing mindfulness, we can become more aware of how our thoughts and emotions affect our physical and mental well-being.
Overall, the understanding step is about gaining knowledge about the brain and the mind-body connection. By understanding how our thoughts and emotions affect our brain and physical health, we can begin to take control of our mental and emotional well-being.
Memory: Using Repetition and Practice to Strengthen New Neural Pathways
In this step, the goal is to use repetition and practice to strengthen new neural pathways. Dr. Leaf emphasizes the importance of repetition in creating new neural pathways in the brain. With practice and repetition, we can reinforce positive thoughts and emotions and weaken negative ones.
One technique Dr. Leaf recommends for memory is called “write, reflect, and apply.” This involves writing down positive thoughts and emotions and reflecting on them to reinforce them in our memory. We can then apply these positive thoughts and emotions in our daily lives, practicing them regularly to strengthen the associated neural pathways.
Another technique Dr. Leaf recommends is visualization. By visualizing positive outcomes and emotions, we can reinforce the associated neural pathways in the brain. This technique can be particularly effective when combined with repetition and practice.
Dr. Leaf also emphasizes the importance of rest and sleep in strengthening new neural pathways. During sleep, the brain consolidates new information and strengthens neural pathways.
Overall, the memory step is about using repetition and practice to strengthen new neural pathways in the brain. By repeating positive thoughts and emotions and visualizing positive outcomes, we can create new and positive neural pathways that reinforce positive behaviors and emotions. Read about the memory step here.
Application: Incorporating the Newly Found Thinking Patterns Into Our Daily Lives to Form New Habits
The goal of this step is to incorporate the new thinking patterns that you created from the earlier step into your daily lives to form new habits. Dr. Leaf emphasizes the importance of applying the knowledge and techniques we have learned in the previous steps to our daily lives. By doing so, we can create new habits that reinforce positive thoughts and emotions.
Dr. Leaf suggests starting with small, achievable goals and gradually building on them. For example, if your goal is to cultivate feelings of calm and relaxation, you might start by taking a few deep breaths throughout the day or practicing mindfulness for a few minutes each day. As we become more comfortable with these practices, we can gradually increase the time and frequency of the practices.
Another technique Dr. Leaf recommends for application is to surround yourself with positive influences. This might include spending time with supportive friends and family, reading uplifting books, or listening to positive music. By surrounding yourselves with positive influences, we can reinforce positive thoughts and emotions and create a supportive environment for your new habits.
Dr. Leaf also emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and patience in the application process. Creating new habits takes time and effort, and it’s important to be kind and patient with yourselves as you work toward your goals.
The application step is about incorporating the newly found thinking patterns from your previous step into your daily lives to form new habits. By starting small and building gradually, surrounding yourselves with positive influences, and practicing self-compassion and patience, we can create lasting positive changes in your behavior and emotions.
Dr. Leaf also discusses the importance of meditation, prayer, and gratitude in rewiring the brain and promoting mental and emotional well-being.
This process involves the use of medication and a combination of a process called EMDR. EMDR – Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, which uses guided eye movements to teach the brain how to deal with traumatic memories, can help you overcome these symptoms. Read more about EMDR here.
When you experience a traumatic event, your brain’s responses will likely be triggered by adrenalin. This will cause your brain to disconnect from your reasoning part, which will not allow you to rationalize. This means you won’t be able to rewire your brain, but you can use these techniques to help your brain cope. If you can learn to stop reliving your experiences, you can heal from PTSD.
Exposure Therapy
Using exposure therapy, psychologists can help people change their thinking patterns and rewire their brains to fight PTSD. This approach relies on the experimental paradigm of extinction learning. By training the brain to forget a memory, a person can move on with their life. During a stressful relapse, this technique can cause panic or a relapse. However, the process is a long one that can take time and requires persistence.
Rewire Your Brain Through Neurofeedback
The treatment for PTSD isn’t a simple fix. While some medications will only temporarily relieve your symptoms, neurofeedback can help you heal from PTSD. During a neurofeedback session, you’ll be able to control your emotions. Moreover, the therapy will help you remember your experiences, which is key in preventing relapses. The process of rewiring your brain will make your PTSD symptom-free and less severe.
The treatment for PTSD isn’t a simple fix. While some medications will only temporarily relieve your symptoms, neurofeedback can help you heal from PTSD. During a neurofeedback session, you’ll be able to control your emotions. Moreover, the therapy will help you remember your experiences, which is key in preventing relapses. The process of rewiring your brain will make your PTSD symptom-free and less severe.
One of the most important parts of the brain, the hippocampus, is affected by PTSD. This region regulates memory and the ability to differentiate between past and present experiences. The damage to the hippocampus causes sufferers to be confused, easily distracted, and unable to differentiate between past and present experiences. The result is that these individuals are often unable to distinguish between their past and present experiences.
While neurofeedback can help you rewire your brain to rewire your PTSD symptoms, it can be difficult to remember the details. When the fear of danger strikes, the hippocampus kicks in and helps to regulate emotions. As the trauma passes, the amygdala resumes its normal functions, and the ventromedial prefrontal cortex completes the circuit. This is an important part of the treatment process and can help you rewire your brain to fight PTSD.
In conclusion, you can rewire your brain by using Dr. Caroline’s 5-step process, assisted therapy, exposure therapy, and neurofeedback.
American Psychiatric Association, DSM-5 Task Force. Posttraumatic stress disorder. Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, 5th ed. Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing; 2013. p 271-280.
Koenen KC, Ratanatharathorn A, Ng L, et al. Posttraumatic stress disorder in the World Mental Health Surveys. Psychol Med 2017;47:2260-2274.
Shalev A, Liberzon I, Marmar C. Post-traumatic stress disorder. N Engl J Med 2017;376:2459-2469.
Benjet C, Bromet E, Karam EG, et al. The epidemiology of traumatic event exposure worldwide: Results from the World Mental Health Survey Consortium. Psychol Med 2016;46:327-343.
Berger W, Coutinho ES, Figueira I, et al. Rescuers at risk: A systematic review and meta-regression analysis of the worldwide current prevalence and correlates of PTSD in rescue workers. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2012;47:1001-1011.
If you have been suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD as it is commonly referred to in the legal world, then your Veterans Benefits attorney may be able to help you receive compensation for your physical and mental condition. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can have an enormous impact on a veterans physical and mental health, and often leads to a need for compensation.
If you feel you fit into this category, then you should contact a qualified and experienced VA Compensation for Ptsd lawyer to discuss your case. While there are many options available to a person with PTSD, there are strict rules governing how much compensation can be claimed.
Posttraumatic stress can happen after someone goes through a traumatic event such as combat, an assault, or a disaster. Most people have some stress reactions following trauma. But if the reactions don’t go away over time or they disrupt your life, you may have posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Find out if you can get disability compensation or benefits if you have symptoms of PTSD.
Am I eligible for disability benefits from VA?
You may be eligible for disability benefits if you have symptoms related to a traumatic event (the “stressor”) or your experience with the stressor is related to the PTSD symptoms, and you meet all of the requirements listed below.
All of these must be true:
The stressor happened during your service, and
You can’t function as well as you once could because of your symptoms, and
A doctor has diagnosed you with PTSD
What does VA consider to be a traumatic event?
We consider any of these to be a traumatic event:
You suffered a serious injury, personal or sexual trauma, or sexual violation, or
You were threatened with injury, sexual assault, or death
Who’s covered?
Veterans
What kind of disability benefits can I get?
Health care
Compensation (payments)
Treatment for PTSD
How do I get these benefits?
You’ll need to file a claim for disability compensation.
When you file a disability claim, you’ll also need to fill out one of these additional forms:
A Statement in Support of Claim for Service Connection for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (VA Form 21-0781). Download VA Form 21-0781 (PDF) or
A Statement in Support of Claim for Service Connection for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Secondary to Personal Assault (VA Form 21-0781a). Download VA Form 21-0781a (PDF)
Note: In our screening process, we’ll focus on getting a full understanding of your PTSD to help determine your eligibility for disability benefits. We won’t offer you treatment during this process.
If you’re looking for treatment options, please talk with your health care provider or learn more about accessing VA services for PTSD. Find out how to access VA services for PTSD
If you’re in crisis and need to talk with someone right now, you can connect with a Veterans Crisis Line responder any time, day or night. Find out how to get support now
Get more information
We’ve made great progress in treating PTSD and have brought more mental health providers to VA medical centers to help give the best care to Veterans with PTSD. Learn about our PTSD programs
