Hypnosis is a state of deep relaxation and focused concentration. In this state, you become more open to suggestions from a trained hypnotherapist.
It’s important to clarify that you won’t be clucking like a chicken under hypnosis – you remain in control and aware of your surroundings throughout.
But it’s also important to note that it’s not entirely proven. Hypnotism might help you get on your chosen path, might not entirely work, might not work at all, or might work amazingly! Who can really be sure – it’s up to the individual.
And so, at the top of this article, it must be stressed that getting involved with treatments like hypnotism can be a lost cause. On the other hand, it can inspire positive change in your life. Maybe there are better ways to achieve positive change, but indeed, hypnotism is one way to get going with your well-being goals.
Key Health Benefits of Hypnotism
Clinical trials support hypnosis as effective for managing pain, reducing anxiety, quitting smoking, and improving sleep quality.
While existing research is encouraging, more comprehensive studies are required to conclusively prove the effectiveness of hypnosis across various conditions.
Nevertheless, for older adults seeking non-drug treatments to enhance wellbeing, hypnosis is a promising option.
Pain management
Hypnosis offers a non-pharmacological option for chronic pain management, particularly beneficial for older adults. Research indicates that hypnosis can significantly diminish the perception of pain, offering a viable alternative to medication.
Reduced stress and anxiety
For seniors facing daily stressors or anxiety, hypnotherapy provides valuable tools. Techniques taught during sessions include deep relaxation and cognitive reframing, which can lead to reduced anxiety and a sense of greater control over one’s mental state.
Sleep enhancement
Many older adults struggle with sleep issues. Hypnosis can encourage more regular and restful sleep patterns through techniques that promote deep relaxation.
Cognitive benefits
Emerging studies suggest that hypnosis can bolster cognitive functions such as focus, memory, and problem-solving skills. This cognitive boost can be particularly advantageous for seniors looking to maintain mental agility.
Facing phobias
Hypnotherapy is also used to confront and manage specific fears and phobias, which can be especially challenging for older adults, such as the fear of falling or the anxiety of being alone.
Does It Work?
It’s important to note that while research is promising, more studies are needed to definitively confirm the effectiveness of hypnosis for all conditions.
However, if you’re an older adult looking for a drug-free approach to improve your wellbeing, hypnosis may be a modality worth exploring. Speak with your doctor about whether it might be right for you.
Research shows hypnosis is a real phenomenon that alters brain activity.
Effective for certain conditions
Clinical trials have shown positive results for pain management, anxiety reduction, smoking cessation, and sleep improvement.
Not a magic bullet
While hypnosis can be a helpful tool, it’s not a cure-all. It works best when combined with traditional therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy.
Placebo effect
The debate continues on how much hypnosis is due to suggestion (placebo effect) versus a unique brain state. Brain imaging studies suggest it’s more than just a placebo, but more research is needed.
Is it for you?
The effectiveness of hypnosis continues to be debated. However, brain imaging studies have demonstrated that the effects of hypnosis extend beyond the placebo effect, suggesting that it induces a unique brain state that enhances its therapeutic efficacy.
Hypnosis has shown potential as a supplementary therapy in conjunction with conventional treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It is not a panacea but can be an effective component of a broader therapeutic plan.
In sum, hypnosis shows promise as a complementary therapy for various conditions, especially for older adults. If you’re considering it, discuss it with your doctor to see if it’s right for you.
By Ben O’Connell
