Whilst modern science has come a long way in treating addictions, complementary therapies such as hypnotherapy may prove effective tools in helping an addict quit their habit with minimal side effects and withdrawal symptoms. Please read on for more information.
How Does Hypnotherapy Work?
Hypnotherapy is therapeutic technique used to safely access the powers of the subconscious mind. It acts to put an individual into a sleep-like state in which the person acts only on external suggestion. It may be used to incite different patterns of thought and behavior, and may be used by an external practitioner or self-administered with the use of pre-recorded sessions.
How Can Hypnotherapy Treat Addictions?
Hypnotherapy can be very effective in helping to treat a wide range of addictions. It can be used to reinforce the behavioural changes that are sought by those seeking to break their addictions. Hypnotherapy can help people with a range of issues from high stress and low self esteem to motivation and self improvement. It is not a cure in and of itself, and should be used as part of a broader treatment program.
Hypnotherapy aims to retrain the subconscious mind in order to affect and modify any sort of behaviors, including addictive ones.
Quite often an addict carries a strong physical dependence with the addiction as well as a psychological one, which are both addressed with hypnotherapy. Before treatment can take place, the individual must want to or already have given up their habit. In the sessions, the hypnotherapist can assist the client in gaining control over their habit in many ways, including by:
- Setting targets and goals
- Suggesting modified behaviours to the subconscious mind surrounding the addiction
- Identifying relapse triggers and developing avoidance strategies
- Reinforcing in the subconscious mind a positive attitude, other motivational techniques, self-control and body image
- Addressing emotional and psychological issues surrounding the addiction
Most addictions may be treated in two to four sessions. However if the addiction is more long-standing, additional treatment may be required.
Caution
As susceptibility and concentration levels are not optimal beforehand, hypnotherapy should not be undertaken for any addiction until a complete detoxification has taken place. Hypnotherapy is also generally ineffective should the addict being unwilling to participate in the treatment.
Find out about other effective natural treatments for addiction.
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