EMDR for PTSD treatment in military context: a case study of Cyprus

Purpose The purpose of this study is to illustrate the relevance of EMDR to the treatment of PTSD in recently divided societies. The mental health of people in the military context can be significantly affected by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), both during and after a conflict or war. The authors decided to concentrate on the application of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing to the treatment of PTSD in the military context of Cyprus. After second word war, Cyprus is the only EU country to have been invaded. Thus, the divided, very small Mediterranean country is a case study with a unique context for studying PTSD because it remains occupied and a large part of the population have been affected by the conflict. Because of the island’s division and ongoing conflict, PTSD is a personal and collective issue within a particularly social, political and sociopsychological context. Design/methodology/approach The analysis draws from an extended secondary research review of existing literature on PTSD treatment with a clear focus on eye-movement desensitization therapy’s (EMDR) potential in military settings and synthesizing evidence for conflict-affected individuals in Cyprus, considering the country’s unique challenges. It further indirectly draws from analysis of previously collected empirical data that highlighted the need for addressing the collective and individual trauma experienced both by military personnel and civilians in conflict-affected regions. Findings While EMDR has been widely recognized as an effective intervention for PTSD, its implementation in military settings presents unique challenges, particularly in post-conflict societies with ongoing military presence and deeply embedded trauma. The review highlighted the complexities of PTSD in both military personnel and civilians affected by war, emphasizing the intergenerational transmission of trauma and the socio-political barriers to mental health care. Additionally, factors such as stigma, military culture, logistical constraints and trauma typology were identified as key mediators influencing treatment effectiveness. Given the specific military context of Cyprus, where military service remains mandatory and geopolitical tensions persist, the need for tailored interventions such as EMDR is particularly pressing. To address these challenges, this study developed the contextualized dual attention model (CDAM), which integrates core EMDR mechanisms with military-specific factors to enhance its effectiveness in treating PTSD within this unique setting. Furthermore, a set of policy recommendations was proposed to improve access to EMDR, overcome structural and cultural barriers and promote trauma-informed care in both military and civilian populations. Originality/value This study developed the CDAM, which integrates core EMDR mechanisms with military-specific factors to enhance its effectiveness in treating PTSD within this unique setting. Furthermore, a set of policy recommendations was proposed to improve access to EMDR, overcome structural and cultural barriers and promote trauma-informed care in both military and civilian populations. By advancing this model and implementing targeted policy measures, EMDR can be optimized as a viable treatment option for PTSD in Cyprus and other conflict-affected regions.