EMDR therapy shows promise for easing trauma in new HIV patients

This study tested whether Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, added to standard HIV care, can reduce psychological trauma and improve quality of life in people recently diagnosed with HIV. Forty adults who were diagnosed within the past month and starting antiretroviral medication took part. Half received weekly EMDR sessions for up to 6 months plus standard care, while the other half received only standard care. The goal was to see if EMDR could lower trauma symptoms, anxiety, depression, and improve HIV treatment adherence and outcomes.