In today’s fast-paced world, mental health is a growing concern. While traditional therapies like CBT and medication are common, many are exploring hypnotherapy as an alternative evidence-based modality. Hypnotherapy uses guided hypnosis to promote positive behavioural and emotional changes. Its non-invasive nature and versatility make it a valuable tool for managing various mental health issues, particularly anxiety and stress. This article explores hypnotherapy’s principles, mechanisms, and notable applications in modern mental and physical health care related to stress.
Exploring the Benefits of Hypnotherapy for Modern Healthcare
What is Hypnotherapy?
Hypnotherapy is a form of guided hypnosis, typically conducted by a certified therapist, in which the patient is brought into a state of focused attention and heightened suggestibility. In this trance-like state, the therapist can make suggestions designed to help the patient alter perceptions, emotions, or behaviors.
Notable Applications of Hypnotherapy for Stress and Anxiety-Related Disorders
Anxiety and Other Stress Responses
Anxiety and stress are among the most common mental health issues today, affecting a large swath of the Hong Kong population. Hypnotherapy has proven to be an effective method for managing these conditions.
As early as 2010, articles and studies highlighted the compelling evidence of efficacious management of situational anxiety with hypnosis (before exams, or medical procedures) and well as other anxiety-related disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and headaches. (Corydon, 2010). For example, a 2006 review of 11 studies showed “substantial therapeutic impact” on IBS (Whitehead 2006). More interestingly, the benefits may extend over time, at least for five years after the studies (Gonsalkorale, 2003).
Depression disorders
When it comes to depression, many studies showed a positive impact on many dimensions of wellbeing. For example, a study concluded that hypnosis positively impacts anxiety, depression, daily fatigue, and sleepiness in hemodialysis patients (Untas et al. 2013). Similarly, hypnosis has been shown to effectively alleviate depressive symptoms and lower inflammation markers levels in patients with lung cancer (Kusuma et al. 2024).
Benefits of Hypnotherapy
The ability of one therapy to effect changes at the physical and mental level is noteworthy and explains its use in European hospitals where patients will typically enjoy a few sessions of hypnosis before or during the medical intervention. As a non-invasive and medication-free option, the growing amount of research highlights improvements in many health aspects as well as long-term benefits.
Hypnotherapy’s effectiveness can vary greatly among individuals. The importance of working with qualified certified and evidence-based professionals cannot be overstated, as they possess the necessary training to tailor sessions effectively to each patient’s unique needs. Ethical considerations, such as obtaining informed consent and ensuring patient confidentiality, are paramount to maintaining trust and safety in the therapeutic relationship. Research-backed hypnosis techniques, supported by clinical studies, provide a reliable foundation for leveraging hypnotherapy in mental and physical health care.
Integrating Mind and Body with Hypnotherapy
Incorporating hypnotherapy into treatment plans has provided substantial relief from anxiety and stress for many individuals, underscoring its potential as a valuable tool in mental health care. Its growing acceptance in medical settings indicates significant opportunities for broader application in psychology. As the evidence base continues to expand, hypnotherapy’s role as a treatment modality is becoming increasingly recognized. This makes it a promising option for those seeking faster therapies to traditional mental health treatments. The positive outcomes experienced by patients highlight the need for further integration of hypnotherapy into comprehensive mental health care strategies.
Photo Credits:
First image: Aleksei Morozov
Second image: metamorworks
References
Hammond, D. C. (2010). Hypnosis in the treatment of anxiety- and stress-related disorders. Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics, 10(2), 263–273. https://doi.org/10.1586/ern.09.140
Whitehead, W. E. (2006). Hypnosis for irritable bowel syndrome: The empirical evidence of therapeutic effects. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 54(1), 7–20. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207140500328708
Gonsalkorale, W. M., Miller, V., Afzal, A., & Whorwell, P. J. (2003). Long term benefits of hypnotherapy for irritable bowel syndrome. Gut, 52(11), 1623–1629. https://doi.org/10.1136/gut.52.11.1623
Untas, A., Chauveau, P., Dupré-Goudable, C., Kolko, A., Lakdja, F., & Cazenave, N. (2013). The Effects of Hypnosis on Anxiety, Depression, Fatigue, and Sleepiness in People Undergoing Hemodialysis: A Clinical Report : Aurélie Untas, Philippe Chauveau, Catherine Dupré-Goudable, Anne Kolko, Fabrice Lakdja und Nicolas Cazenave. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 61(4), 475–483. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207144.2013.810485
Kusuma, W., Andriatno, A., & Seno, B. H. (2024). Medical hypnosis on depression and interleukin-6 levels in lung cancer patients. International Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 12(7), 2216–2221. https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-6012.ijrms20241602
Christine Deschemin
About the author
Christine Deschemin is the founder and CEO of the Renewed Edge Hypnotherapy & Counselling Centre and UpNow Health, a leading provider of self-management programs leveraging hypnosis and other behavioural therapies. She is also the creator of the EverCalm Menopause, an evidence-based program aimed at alleviating hot flashes, improving sleep and mood issues. As an executive coach and hypnotherapist, she is dedicated to empowering individuals through innovative solutions and fostering supportive workplace environments.
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