Hypnotherapy

Hypnosis is a state of restful alertness during which a person can be relatively unaware of, but not completely blind to, their surroundings.

Hypnosis is one of several relaxation methods that has been approved by an independent panel, convened by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), as a useful complementary therapy for treating chronic pain. The technique may also be effective in reducing fear and anxiety, treating pain during labour and delivery, reducing labour time, and controlling bleeding and pain during dental procedures. There is no scientific evidence that hypnosis can influence the development or progression of cancer, however, it can help to improve the quality of life for some people with cancer.

How is it used?

Practitioners say that hypnosis creates a state of deep relaxation, quiets the conscious mind, and leaves the unconscious part of the mind open to suggestions that can help to improve health and lifestyle. People who are hypnotized have selective attention and are able to concentrate intensely on a specific thought, memory, feeling, or sensation while blocking out distractions. Hypnosis is commonly used to reduce stress and anxiety, and create a sense of well being. It can also be used to change undesirable behaviours, such as smoking, alcohol dependency, and bedwetting, and to overcome common fears, such as the fear of flying or meeting people. Some claim that hypnosis can be used to reduce chronic and acute pain. Hypnosis is sometimes used to relieve pain caused by cancer. Proponents do not claim that hypnosis can cure cancer or any other disease, or that it always results in the desired effects. However, they say that it can be a useful addition to conventional therapy for some conditions. Hypnosis is occasionally substituted for anaesthetic drugs during minor surgical and dental procedures, and during childbirth. Some supporters also believe hypnosis not only accelerates recovery after an operation, but also reduces the amount of surgical bleeding and enhances the body's immune system.

How is it done?

There are many different hypnotic techniques. One method involves leading patients into a state of hypnosis by talking in gentle, soothing tones, and describing images meant to create a sense of relaxation, security, and well being. People under hypnosis may appear to be asleep but they are actually in an altered state of concentration and can focus intently when asked to do so by the hypnotherapist. While a patient is under hypnosis, the hypnotherapist may suggest particular goals, such as pain control, stabilizing emotions, and reducing stress, fear, or anxiety. Contrary to what many believe, people under hypnosis are not under the control of the hypnotherapist nor can they be made to do something they do not want. Quite the opposite is true. Hypnosis is used to help patients gain more control over their behaviour, emotions, and even physiological processes that cause undesired consequences. People cannot be hypnotized involuntarily, and not everyone can be put into a hypnotic trance. Success depends upon the patient's willingness and receptivity to the idea of undergoing hypnosis. Some people can learn to hypnotize themselves.

What is the history?

Hypnosis and hypnotic suggestion have been a part of healing practices for thousands of years. The word comes from the Greek, "hypnos," which means sleep. The induction of trance-like states and the use of therapeutic suggestion were important features of the early Greek healing temples. Variations of those techniques were practiced throughout the ancient world. Modern hypnosis can be credited to the Viennese physician, Franz Anton Mesmer, who believed that imbalances in magnetic forces in the human body were responsible for illness. Mesmer applied a therapy, which he called mesmerism, involving the use of tranquil gestures and soothing words to relax patients and restore the balance to their magnetic forces. Sigmund Freud, the father of psychotherapy, found hypnosis useful for treating hysteria, but later abandoned the practice after observing that his technique stirred up powerful emotions within his patients. Eventually, the notion of using a state of altered awareness gained greater acceptance in conventional Western medicine. Today, hypnosis is used widely in Western countries. People who practice hypnosis are often trained in a variety of psychological techniques.

Does it work?

Numerous reports demonstrate that hypnosis can help patients reduce blood pressure, stress, anxiety, and pain; create relaxing brain wave patterns, modify negative behaviours such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and overeating; and eliminate or decrease the intensity of phobias. Some research has also demonstrated that hypnosis can be used to control nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. According to some reports there is strong evidence that hypnosis can relieve some pain associated with disease. Another report, which reviewed several scientific studies, showed some interesting research findings about the therapeutic potential of hypnosis including the finding that women under hypnosis prior to childbirth experienced shorter labours and more comfortable deliveries. According to the report, hypnosis may also enhance the immune system. One study listed found that hypnosis raised the levels of immunoglobulin (an important component of the immune system) in healthy children. Another study reported that self-hypnosis led to an increase in white blood cell activity.

Are there any possible problems?
Hypnosis conducted under the care of a trained hypnotherapist is considered safe as a complementary method.

Note: This information is not intended as medical advice, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with your doctor who is familiar with your medical needs.