Addiction is a powerful, all-consuming disease that affects virtually every aspect of health and well-being. With effects ranging from deteriorating physical health to legal and financial troubles, the complications associated with addiction to drugs or alcohol are serious, far-reaching and, in some cases, life-threatening. What’s more, along with its varied effects, addiction is often the result of numerous causes, most of which are deeply-rooted in the addict’s psyche.

Due to the many causes of addiction, effective treatment often involves comprehensive psychological therapies, designed to fully overhaul the addict’s thought and behavioral processes. One such method of addressing the causes and effects of addiction is hypnosis, or hypnotherapy. The following is an in-depth look at the use of hypnotherapy in the treatment of addiction, which includes information on methods, effectiveness and more.

What is Hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a trance-like state of heightened concentration and focus. Typically achieved with the help of a hypnotherapist, who may use mental images and verbal repetition, the state of hypnosis leaves the patient calm and relaxed. Contrary to popular belief, hypnosis does not lead to a complete loss of control over one’s actions and behaviors; rather, it simply promotes focus and relaxation, leaving the individual more open to the power of suggestion. Along with several other diseases, hypnosis has proven to be effective for:

• Drug Addiction
• Prescription Drug Addiction
• Alcoholism

Drug Addiction and Hypnotism

Hypnosis is often used to help individuals gain control over unhealthy thoughts and behaviors. For example, it may be used in approaching and overcoming the symptoms of depression, anxiety and other disorders. When it comes to addiction, hypnosis can be a valuable tool in helping addicts address the underlying causes of the disease as well as achieve and maintain sobriety, improve overall health and enhance quality of life.

While methods of hypnosis can vary, sessions usually begin with a full assessment of the client’s addiction history, physical and psychological health, recovery goals and other important factors. Next, a hypnotherapist may guide the client into a state of hypnosis using a soothing, gentle tone of voice. Once under hypnosis, the client is in a relaxed, receptive state, open to the therapist’s guidance and suggestions. The therapist will then suggest methods of setting and achieving goals regarding addiction recovery, enhanced health and heightened well-being.

Also, many hypnotherapists find it beneficial to promote the visualization of meaningful, vivid mental pictures of the client achieving certain objectives. For example, a therapist may ask the client to picture himself in the future, sober, healthy and experiencing all the rewards that accompany addiction recovery.

Are There Risks Associated with Hypnotherapy?

When performed by a trained therapist, hypnotherapy is considered a safe form of alternative medicine treatment. Adverse reactions to hypnotherapy are extremely rare; however, some clients may experience effects like the following:

• Headache.
• Dizziness or drowsiness.
• Heightened anxiety.
• Psychological or emotional distress, which may occur in individuals suffering from severe mental illness.
• False memory syndrome.

Effectiveness

Hypnotherapy can be an extremely effective tool in the treatment of addiction. It’s important to note, however, that it is best used as a complimentary therapy, accompanying traditional methods of addiction recovery. For example, when used in conjunction with cognitive and behavioral therapies, group counseling and other strategies, hypnosis can enhance the odds of rehabilitation, prevent relapse with addictive substances and promote better quality of life.