Hypnotherapy can be successful in helping to treat both drug and alcohol addiction.
Combining the psychological process of hypnosis with psychotherapy, hypnotherapy works by altering thought processes. As a result, this type of therapy can offer a whole host of benefits.
Conducted by a trained therapist, the process of hypnosis involves inducing an altered state of consciousness, specifically intense concentration or focused attention. As a guided process with verbal cues and repetition, patients remain in a trance-like state but are still fully aware of what is going on around them.
The techniques used aim to induce suggestions on the mind to treat substance and alcohol abuse disorders.
One of the main advantages of using hypnotherapy to help treat addiction is that the person being hypnotised is more passive and open to suggestions. For example, under hypnosis, people can become more imaginative and relaxed, and better able to recall memories and, most importantly, change their perspective on their addictive behaviours.
Addressing destructive behaviours whilst in a hypnotic state can help addicts to quit the substance that they are addicted to, changing their thought processes and behaviours surrounding addiction.
All hypnosis and hypnotherapy should be conducted by a trained hypnotherapist for it to be carried out safely.
Although hypnosis works for many addicts, not everyone responds in the same way.
And, for it to work, the person being hypnotised needs to be sober or free from any substances in order for the process to be effective. Patients must also concentrate and not resist the treatment.
It’s important to remember that, although hypnotherapy can help addicts to overcome their addiction, it is not an instant or long-term cure. Once a suggestion has been implanted, the patient still has to follow through with it.
Ultimately, hypnotherapy will only work for those who are open to change and ready to implement it in their lives.
Although hypnosis isn’t a permanent cure for drug addiction, many experts believe that it should be used as part of drug addiction treatments.
Because drug addictions are primarily a behavioural issue, rather than purely a physical condition, treatments such as hypnotherapy can be beneficial when used alongside other forms of treatment.
The therapeutic process helps people work towards a successful recovery, by supporting them to break habits and behaviours. The techniques used in hypnotherapy can also help eliminate cravings.
Suggestions that are made under hypnosis can temporarily convince the patient of ideas or concepts, which can manifest in real and very physical reactions to substances. In some cases, this can prevent short term relapse.
Managing any form of addiction can be incredibly hard and can affect all areas of your life, including work, education, relationships, as well as your general health and wellbeing. With this in mind, it’s important that you seek the help you need as soon as possible and begin your road to recovery.
To find out more about how hypnotherapy can be beneficial for drug and alcohol addiction, please get in touch.
