Hypnotherapy is a complementary method that uses hypnosis to assist in the treatment of a particular symptom or medical condition. In order to experience dissociated attention from the outside world and to concentrate on inner experiences [1], patients who are undergoing hypnotherapy are placed in a hypnotic state that is characterized by waking consciousness.
Clients are guided into a trance, which is a state of increased focus, by a qualified, certified hypnotherapist. An altered state of consciousness and enhanced relaxation known as trance state can help you be more receptive to recommendations for altering your perceptions, emotions, memories, thoughts, or behaviors [2].
Under the supervision of a qualified therapist, verbal repetition and mental images are typically used to induce hypnosis. When under hypnosis, most people experience serenity and relaxation. People in hypnosis are frequently more responsive to suggestions for behavioural change [3].
Benefits of Clinical Hypnotherapy in Stress Management
As an alternative to conventional medications, hypnotherapy can offer relief from symptoms of stress and anxiety which can greatly improve physical symptoms and help you feel better equipped to cope and feel more positive. There is increasing evidence of the benefits of hypnotherapy, particularly in the areas of IBS and pain management by researchers in the UK and abroad. Professor Peter Whorwell, a gastroenterologist at Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester, runs a hypnotherapy clinic for IBS patients with great success[4].
Hypnosis can be effective in helping people cope with pain, stress and anxiety. Keep in mind, though, that health care providers typically suggest other treatments, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, for those conditions before or along with hypnosis.
Hypnosis may be effective as part of a larger treatment plan for quitting smoking or losing weight[3].
Hypnosis can help with stress management by giving you a fresh perspective. It enables a person suffering from stress to develop an intrinsic ability to stay calm. Hypnosis works by inhibiting the release of stress hormones in the body which can potentially compromise health. Undergoing a hypnotherapy session clarifies the idea of how stress is projected onto actions. Hypnotherapy helps to develop the understanding that the stressors are not responsible for the state of stress. Instead, it is the aspect of having a negative mind-set towards the stressors that causes stress.
A clinical hypnotherapist helps you to get over unpleasant feelings and thoughts. The hypnotherapist also helps you to remain calm even when situations are challenging and stressful. Your hypnotherapist is responsible for equipping you with necessary techniques and tools to help you shift to a more relaxed state of mind when confronted with difficult situations[5].
How to find a qualified and experienced clinical hypnotherapist
There are several ways to find a reputable hypnotherapist. Word of mouth is always a great way to find any practitioner. Your mental health practitioner may be licensed to perform hypnotherapy or they may know someone who is. If you know someone who has undergone this type of therapy, ask about their experiences. Keep in mind, however, that some hypnotherapists only focus on particular issues, so a friend’s therapist may not be right for you[1].Look around until you find someone who is the right fit for you.
References
1. Hypnotherapy: Definition, Techniques, and Efficacy.https://www.verywellmind.com/hypnotherapy-2671993 Accessed 2023-04-12
2. {{title}}.https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22676-hypnosis Accessed 2023-04-12
3. Hypnosis.https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/hypnosis/about/pac-20394405 Accessed 2023-04-12
4. Discovering the Benefits of Clinical Hypnotherapy.https://www.healthhubble.com/article/discovering-the-benefits-of-clinical-hypnotherapy.html Accessed 2023-04-12
5. Hypnotherapy for Stress Management.https://www.cognition.org.uk/blog/hypnotherapy-for-stress-management Accessed 2023-04-12
6. Clinical Hypnotherapy | Parkside Psychotherapy.https://www.parksidepsychotherapy.com/clinical-hypnotherapy/ Accessed 2023-04-12