Think about films or TV programmes you’ve seen that feature hypnosis or hypnotherapy. I’ll bet a recurring theme among them is an unsuspecting volunteer falling immediately into a deep sleep-like state, controlled by a hypnotist and their swinging watch – In reality, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
These distorted displays can cause unnecessary fear. In this month’s blog, I’d like to debunk some of the most common misconceptions people have about hypnotherapy, in the hope of reassuring even the most sceptical of those of you reading.
MYTH
Hypnotherapy isn’t real therapy.
REALITY
Whilst hypno- refers to the state of altered consciousness you enter, the therapy that takes place whilst in this state is safe and extremely effective. Hypnotherapy can treat people suffering from a wide range of issues, ranging from mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, addiction and eating disorders to physical issues, such as migraines, excessive pain and irritable bowel syndrome.
MYTH
Hypnotherapy is like going to sleep, you won’t remember a thing that happens during your sessions.
REALITY
People may look like they’re asleep when undergoing hypnotherapy, but that’s because they’re physically and mentally relaxed. Clients remain responsive and aware of their surroundings throughout their treatment – In fact, they’re an active participant!
When an EEG scan has been conducted on a person receiving hypnotherapy, it’s been shown that their brain is very much awake and responsive, compared to a person who is asleep and not alert.
MYTH
You might never be able to “get out” of your hypnotic state.
REALITY
Remember, a hypnotic state is not a scary thing to happen. You will be in a relaxed state which most clients find a pleasant, enjoyable experience. What’s more, you can bring yourself out of your relaxed state at any time you wish.
MYTH
You can be made to do things against your will during hypnotherapy.
REALITY
Your therapist will make suggestions based on your therapy plan and individual needs, but you are in complete control of your decisions. You’ll stay in touch with your morals and won’t be made to do anything that you wouldn’t usually do. At no point will you be helpless or out of control.
MYTH
Hypnotherapy solves all life’s problems in one session.
REALITY
Whilst some clients do see significant improvements in their condition, Rome wasn’t built in a day.
One of my biggest bugbears is therapists who make wild claims of being able to cure any mental health condition in only one session. Yes, it’s a great story to tell and an even better way to attract new clients, but it’s nothing more than a lie – And a particularly unfair one at that. A client expecting to be “cured” in the space of 45 minutes will experience significant disappointment and, often, questions over whether there is something “wrong” with them.
As your hypnotherapist, I will work with you to create a therapy plan best suited to your needs. This may be two or three sessions, but for a deeper, longer lasting improvement in your condition, a course of treatment may be required. Change takes time and I will guide you all the way.
MYTH
Hypnotherapists are weird and extravagant.
REALITY
Have you met me? No? Let me tell you, I’m one of the least extravagant people you’re likely to meet. Whilst I probably seem pretty weird when I talk to Barney, my beloved canine sidekick, on our morning walks, I’d like to think that, as a therapist, I’m one of the more relatable!
Let’s be honest, no one is going to relax if there’s someone sitting across from them with this look on their face!
MYTH
You can’t lie during hypnotherapy – Or, worse, you’ll blurt out your biggest secrets.
REALITY
In my many years as a hypnotherapist, I’m yet to experience a client divulging their secret family recipe for beetroot chocolate cake. Hypnotherapy doesn’t put you under some kind of magical trance that means you can only tell the truth. Just as you aren’t helpless during your therapy, you aren’t at risk of being made to confess to breaking the “finger” off an ancient statue at the museum when you were 6.
As with anything you’ve never tried before, it’s understandable that you may feel apprehensive. I didn’t become a hypnotherapist by chance – I received hypnotherapy for life-limiting anxiety and swore to myself that I would help to change the lives of others suffering like I once was. You can read more of my journey to recovery and beyond here.
If you have any doubts about hypnotherapy treatment or aren’t sure if your condition can be treated, please get in touch. I will gladly discuss therapy options with you.
Contact Piece of Mind today:
0141 340 9870
7.Drink responsibly
Whether your festive beverage is a Baileys or a Buck’s Fizz, try to drink responsibly. Getting drunk might be fun, but the morning after never is. Avoid the hangover (and the family arguments about who ate the last Malteser Celebration) to avoid unnecessary anxieties.
8.Live in the moment and ENJOY YOURSELF
Anxiety can take away all feelings of joy. It’s easier said than done, but try to enjoy yourself whenever you can and remember… It’ll all be over soon!
Christmas might be the most wonderful time of the year for some, but living with anxiety only becomes harder when you’re faced with festive pressures. At Piece of Mind, our diaries remain open throughout December, with hypnotherapy available to help you live the anxiety-free life you deserve and not only for Christmas, but for the rest of your life.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
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