Connect
← Return to Lumbar puncture - my next step in my journey
Discussion
Lumbar puncture - my next step in my journey
Neuropathy | Last Active: Oct 11 6:59pm | Replies (23)Comment receiving replies
@mayoscout I did some EMDR therapy and it is very helpful. It helps you process memories similar to when you are sleeping in the REM stage (rapid eye movements). That seems to be when the brain is processing memories and traumatic memories. I also did clinical hypnosis and that worked very well. That was centered around having a "safe place" in your mind that you design yourself, and the post hypnotic suggestions are things that you ask the therapist for. I think that empowers you to be able to cope even though you are experiencing something that is fearful, and the amazing part is you are really doing this yourself and your therapist is the facilitator. That is the power of the mind and you can focus your thoughts and feelings into overcoming adversity. For me it was a fear of surgery that was deep rooted. I did hypnosis and was able to be calm through my first surgery. That was a beginning point, and I knew if that was possible, that I could also learn more about how to keep myself calm in the future. It was after that I did the EMDR with same therapist.
I started this discussion about using creativity to overcome fear. Maybe this will interest you.
Just Want to Talk - "How can I defeat my anxiety about medical tests and surgery?"
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/how-can-i-defeat-my-anxiety-about-medical-tests-and-surgery/
I'm happy that you want to try the music retreat. What is the VA program with art and music? I know it's not in your area, but I'm curious about what they do.
Replies to "@mayoscout I did some EMDR therapy and it is very helpful. It helps you process memories..."
Connect
I've never tried hypnosis. I'm glad that worked for you. I went from doing years of CBT to doing CBT once a week and EMDR one to two times a week to now I am at EMDR or CBT one time a week.
I came in contact with a guy on my team a few years ago that said "dude, do EMDR." His wife works in therapy and she made him do it right after combat. He said it was life changing so I decided to give it a go. He said it took him four years before he finally started feeling really good. I'm a couple of years in and I can already feel some things relax in my brain. Nightmares, flashbacks, etc still get pretty intense specifically about 6 months out of the year from combat trauma but I am hoping this year will be better. My wife says "you say that every year but that never happens" lol. The body keeps the score (great read) and it is extremely difficult to overcome the natural reactions my body switches into during those months.
The VA program is called Recreation and Creative Arts Therapy. Also, the Whole Health Department in my area works to pair up with local music shops to see if they will give free lessons to veterans. Unfortunately I am located to far away from those partnerships so I cannot join in on the fun.