Use of EMDR-Derived Self-Help Intervention in Children in the Period of COVID-19: A Randomized-Controlled Study

Self-help treatments are an important intervention tool, with high accessibility and ease of application. To our knowledge, no research has previously been conducted on any self-help derived from eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. In this study, we evaluated the mental health status children not directly affected by pandemic investigated effects using EMDR-derived in as a low-intensity treatment. The 178 was online via State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children (STAIC) Childhood Posttraumatic Stress Reaction Index (CPTS-RI). Then, were randomly assigned to waitlist. A booklet containing techniques sent school portal conducted. Posttests administered 4 weeks later. attrition rate 45.5%, 97 completing trial (intervention: 52; waitlist: 45). At baseline, 76.4% showed posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) above threshold. Results statistically significant decrease posttest PTSS scores group compared had pre–post improvement all but one subscale, while waitlist increase state anxiety STAIC. conclusion, found be during COVID-19 outbreak period, appeared effective psychosocial tool.