Did you know that many cultures have their own form of hypnosis?
Whether you’re looking at shamanism in Siberia and Japan or Native North American medicine, each has a practice reminiscent of modern-day hypnotherapy. It’s easy to ask yourself, “Is hypnosis safe?” when first learning about it, but that’s exactly what we’re here to show you.
Read on to learn more about the hypnosis process and how it might help you.
Does Hypnosis Work?
The short answer is, yes, hypnosis works.
The word originates from the Greek word “Hypnos,” meaning “sleep,” and “-osis,” meaning “a state.” The process is similar to putting someone to sleep, and it’s not dangerous to have done by a certified professional.
In fact, studies have even shown that those under hypnosis have similar brain waves to those in light sleep.
How Does Hypnosis Work?
When you visit a trained therapist, there are a few key things to expect.
Your provider will explain the process and then go over your treatment goals before getting started with the hypnosis session. From there, they’ll typically begin speaking in a low, soothing tone, working to create a sense of well-being and help you enter a state of relaxation.
While in a hypnotic state, you’ll likely feel dreamlike and detached from reality. You may even feel as though you’re in a trance-like state.
Some people worry about losing control while under hypnosis, but that’s not the case. The goal of hypnotherapy is to help you focus and become more open to hypnotic suggestion, not to take away your free will. While you’re in this state of deep relaxation, you enter a state of consciousness where you become receptive to new ideas and open to suggestions. At this point, your hypnotherapist will work with you to achieve your treatment goals, whether that’s quitting smoking, overeating, managing stressful events, insomnia, or overcoming phobias.
The trance-like state that is induced during a hypnotherapy session is not necessarily a dangerous state. Entering a hypnosis state can be beneficial for people who are looking to focus and block out distractions. However, it is important to note that clinical applications of hypnosis bear no resemblance to the “you are getting sleepy” parlor tricks that are often depicted in movies and on television.
When the session ends, you might be able to bring yourself out of hypnosis. Your hypnotherapist might also gradually help bring you back to full awareness.
Is Hypnosis Safe?
So, is hypnotherapy safe? As long as it’s done by a trustworthy, trained professional, then yes, the treatment is safe. A certified hypnotherapist will understand how the process works, what methods are safe to use, and what may work best for you. Many states require hypnotherapists to have a certification to practice, but not all do.
Be sure to research the person you’re seeking treatment from, and don’t be afraid to ask questions before getting started. Here are a few ideas:
- Are you certified in this specialty in this state?
- Do you have specialized training in hypnosis?
- How long have you done hypnosis?
- How much training have you had?
- What school or schools have you attended?
- What are your fees? Can they be covered by insurance?
Remember, the hypnotherapist is there to help you. This process is a vulnerable one, and it’s important that you feel comfortable the entire time.
A Few Hypnosis Myths
If you’ve heard of hypnosis, you’ve likely come across a few myths about its use. TV shows often depict this practice as one where you’re under complete control of someone else, unaware of your actions and bodily functions.
We’re here to debunk a few of these misrepresentations.
It’s a form of Entertainment
First, hypnosis is not simply for entertainment. Hypnotherapy is not a stage hypnosis act; nobody will mind control you and make you hop around on one leg. Hypnotherapy from a certified professional is a type of medical treatment that’s often used as a supplement to other medical approaches.
It’s almost never the sole treatment someone receives, and it shouldn’t be used in place of modern-day medicine if a doctor suggests it.
You’re Under the Control of the Hypnotherapist
When you’re answering the question, “is hypnotherapy safe?” it’s important to understand that nobody has control over your body. In fact, most people remain aware of everything happening to them during the hypnotherapy. You’ll know exactly who you are, where you are, and why you’re undergoing that treatment in the first place.
During your session, if things become overwhelming or you feel triggered, it’s simple to come out of that state. In fact, some patients can even wake themselves up at the end of a session. If you can’t do this, though, the hypnotherapist will help you slowly regain awareness of your surroundings.
Hypnosis makes it simpler for someone to experience suggestions, but it doesn’t force you to have certain experiences.
Hypnosis Is Nothing More Than Deep Sleep
When undergoing hypnosis, you’re not actually asleep. Some people can fall asleep during their sessions, but this isn’t often the case.
There are, however, deeper forms of meditation that can make you appear asleep, as your body is quite still, but you won’t be sleeping throughout the session.
Is Hypnosis Dangerous? Hypnosis Side Effects
Can hypnosis be dangerous? It depends on the person.
Who should not use hypnosis?
There are certain people who shouldn’t be hypnotized, such as those with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. If you have any questions about whether hypnosis is right for you, it’s important that you speak with your doctor first. In general, however, hypnotherapy is a safe medical treatment when used correctly
Hypnotherapy can be dangerous for people with severe mental disorders, including:
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Drug and alcohol misuse
- Schizophrenia
Hypnotherapy completed by a certified hypnotherapist is a safe and complementary treatment method. Sometimes, however, those with severe mental illness may experience reactions like headaches, nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, or anxiety are rare, but they do happen.
This study, however, found the rate of serious adverse events likely to be attributable to hypnosis was zero percent. The rate of other adverse effects of hypnosis was 0.47 percent.
Like with any new treatment method, proceed with caution when someone suggests working through a traumatic event. Treatment may trigger strong emotional reactions, and it’s essential to ensure the person helping you is trained to handle those situations.
What Conditions Can Hypnotherapy Help With?
Hypnotherapy can work to treat a myriad of conditions—particularly those in which psychological factors have an influence on physical symptoms. There are a few common mental health uses, like:
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Behavioral control issues
It can help other health issues and medical conditions too, though, like:
- Asthma
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Acute and Chronic Pain control from conditions such as fibromyalgia
- Side effects of radiation or chemotherapy, like vomiting and nausea
- Skin conditions
- Sleep problems
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Smoking addiction
The use of Hypnosis is still being studied as a viable treatment for these ailments, along with many others. Hypnosis has also been shown to be an effective weight loss tool in multiple studies. It is a safe and effective way to change eating habits and behaviors to support a successful weight loss plan.
Is hypnotherapy Safe and is it Right for You?
So, does hypnotherapy sound like something that might help you? If you’re still wondering “Is hypnosis safe?” remember that this treatment method doesn’t involve any special preparation or precautions. Simply ensure you’re well rested before your session, and be ready to work through difficult situations, just like you would with therapy.
However, it is important to ensure you’re working with the right professional. Luckily, we can help you the entire way. Contact us today to get started.