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Strategies for hypnosis interventions can include direct hypnotic suggestions to quit, suggestions intended to produce aversion to smoking, and training in self-hypnosis to reinforce treatment success. Hypnosis tends to be useful as part of a multi-component intervention.
Hypnotherapy, or hypnosis, is a means of creating a state of deep mental relaxation where physical and mental stress and tension are reduced. Someone in such a relaxed state of mind may be more open to suggestion and advice from a professionally trained hypnotherapist as to how to change certain aspects of their behaviour or lifestyle - such as smoking.
How does it work?
Hypnotherapy has been widely promoted for a number of years as a way of helping smokers to quit. Hypnotherapists say that it can work on the underlying impulses that make us want to smoke a cigarette, and that it can strengthen the will to stop.
How successful is hypnotherapy in stopping people smoking?
Some people do find hypnotherapy helpful, but there is no scientific evidence to prove that it works. A major analysis of nine controlled studies has found that hypnotherapy did not increase peoplès ability to stay smoke free after six months when compared with other interventions (for example nicotine patches, gum or inhaler), or no treatment.
Is it safe?
There are few medical conditions that would prevent a person from undergoing hypnotherapy. Almost everyone who wishes to be hypnotised can achieve a level of relaxation sufficient to allow therapy to take place.
Are there any side-effects?
No - most people find it very relaxing. During hypnosis you would be aware of your surroundings and could come out of the hypnotised state at any time.
What are the benefits of this option?
- No drugs or nicotine replacement therapy are involved
- Few obvious side-effects.
What are the disadvantages of this option?
- It has not yet been proven that it works
- Expensive
- Some people do not like the thought of being hypnotised.
