Hypnotherapy is (unfortunately) a treatment method that has many myths and misconceptions surrounding it and regularly throws up confusion, more than curiosity. The same can be said for hypnosis, generally.
So, what is hypnosis? What is it used for? How does it work? And what is the truth underlying the misconceptions? Today, we’re sharing more about all of this, so keep reading to find out more.
What is Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy?
Hypnosis is a state of focused attention, similar to that experienced when you are absorbed in a creative task or sport. It can be induced by a hypnotherapist or by yourself, and it can help you change your thoughts, feelings and behaviours in positive ways. Hypnotherapy is the use of hypnosis for therapeutic purposes, such as treating anxiety, pain, phobias, habits and stress-related disorders.
What is it Used for?
There is scientific evidence that hypnotherapy can be effective for some conditions, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and it has been recognised by the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) as a treatment option for this. There is also evidence that it is unhelpful for some disorders, such as advanced dementia and for some client types, which are essentially related to the disorders for which it is unhelpful.
How does it work?
When you are deeply relaxed, your unconscious mind becomes more receptive to new ideas and perspectives. A hypnotherapist can guide you into this state and use various techniques to help you change your thoughts and behaviours.
This can be very useful for breaking habits, reducing anxiety and managing stress. It can even help with physical conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, which has been recognised by NICE as a condition that can benefit from hypnotherapy.
Common Myths and Misconceptions
Hypnotherapy is (unfortunately and frustratingly)not without its myths and misconceptions. Some people are afraid or sceptical of trying it, because they don’t know the facts. Today, we’d like to clear up the confusion, personally.
1. Hypnotherapists can control my mind
No, they can’t. Hypnosis is not mind control in any sense of the word(s). It’s a natural state of focused attention that you enter willingly and with your full consent. You are always aware of what’s going on, can choose to accept or reject any suggestion and you can end the session at any time.
Hypnotherapists are trained to use positive and ethical suggestions that align with your goals and values. They can’t make you do anything that goes against your beliefs or wishes.
2. The hypnotherapist will make me do things I don’t want to do
This is a common fear, but it’s based on a misunderstanding of what hypnosis is. You may have seen stage or TV shows where people do silly things under hypnosis, but that’s not what happens in therapy. Those people volunteer to be on stage, agree to play along and are often not in hypnosis and are just acting along.
In therapy, you are always in control and you can choose to accept or reject any suggestions. Hypnotherapy only works if you want it to work, and if you trust your therapist.
3. I may not come out of hypnosis
This is impossible. Hypnosis is not a coma or a sleep state. It’s a natural and temporary state that you naturally enter and exit all day, every day and can exit whenever you want. All you have to do is open your eyes, or tell your therapist that you want to stop.
Even if the session is interrupted or the therapist leaves, you will naturally come back to your normal state of awareness, just like waking up from a nap.
4. I won’t remember anything from the session
This is not true either. Your memory of the session may vary, depending on how deeply relaxed you are and how much you focus on the therapist’s voice. Some people naturally focus more on the hypnotherapist’s voice, whilst some allow their attention to wander about a bit. Both are natural, normal and acceptable. Sometimes you may remember everything, sometimes you may remember bits and pieces, and sometimes you may remember nothing at all. All of these are normal and don’t affect the outcome of the therapy.
5. Only weak-willed people can be hypnotised
This is a myth that stems from a misunderstanding of what willpower is. Willpower is not a fixed trait that some people have and some don’t. It’s a skill that can be developed and improved.
6. Hypnotherapy is magic
It may seem like it, especially with it generally working much quicker than counselling or psychotherapy, but it’s not magic or witchcraft. Hypnotherapy is based on scientific principles and evidence. It works by tapping into your own inner resources and potential. It’s not a miracle cure or a quick fix. It requires your commitment and cooperation, as well as your therapist’s guidance and support.
The Truth About Hypnosis: In a Nutshell
Hypnosis is not a test of willpower. It’s a state of concentration (and often relaxation, though it doesn’t have to be so) that anyone can achieve, as long as they are able and willing to follow instructions. Some studies have shown that people who are more creative and imaginative are more responsive to hypnosis, because they can visualise and explore new possibilities. And other research has shown that those who work in careers whereby they are obligated to follow instructions (such as soldiers) also do well with hypnotherapy.
As you would probably expect, a good hypnotherapist will be able to explain whether you are likely to benefit from it, and to what extent you will find it beneficial.
Want to Find out More?
Hypnotic Universe understands how important it is to find the right hypnotherapy service to meet your needs. We know that you are as unique as your journey to wellbeing. If you’d like to discuss your journey, just contact us.
