Scientific evidence about the benefits of hypnotherapy
FERTILITY
Hypnosis can increase the chances of successful IVF treatments
A total of 89 couples underwent 98 IVF/ET treatment cycles with hypnosis . A significantly higher pregnancy rate was observed in the hypnosis group compared with the control group. In the hypnosis group 58.4% of the couples conceived while the rate in the control group was 30.2%
Levitas, E., Parmet, A., Lunenfeld, E., Bentov, Y., Burstein, E., Friger, M., & Potashnik, G. (2006). Impact of hypnosis during embryo transfer on the outcome of in vitro fertilization–embryo transfer: a case-control study. Fertility and sterility, 85(5), 1404-1408.
STRESS, ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION
Hypnotherapy decreasing anxiety
This study investigated the effect of hypnotherapy in 20 adults who sought help for stress, anxiety and depression and the effect of hypnotherapy. The statistical analyze showed significantly lower symptoms in all areas, and the best effect was held by people who had anxiety. The conclusion of the authors is that hypnosis is appropriate as a method of treatment for reactions caused by a fight / flight mode.
Gould, R. C., & Krynicki, V. E. (1989). Comparative effectiveness of hypnotherapy on different psychological symptoms. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 32(2), 110-117.
Hypnotherapy helping individuals with post-traumatic stress
32 patients suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder were divided into two groups. During the same period, one group received four hypnosis sessions of 1.5 hours per time and the other group received drugs for 14 nights. After two weeks there was a significant improvement in the group who received hypnosis, much better than the one who received the drug. The hypnosis group also started to sleep better and could trade everyday lives much better than the other group. The effect remained on the follow-up one month later.
Abramowitz EG, Barak Y, Ben-Avi I, Knobler HY. "Hypnotherapy in the treatment of chronic combat-related PTSD patients suffering from insomnia: a randomized, zolpidem-controlled clinical trial." Int J Clin Exp Hypn. 2008 Jul;56(3):270-80. Israel Defense Forces, Mental Health Department, Israel.
Decreased depression
At the University of Calgary in Canada, a comparison was made between the effect of CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and hypnotherapy for people with depression. The study involved 84 individuals during a duration of 16 weeks. At the end of the treatment, both groups had begun to feel better, but the hypnosis group achieved better results than the KBT group in reducing depression, anxiety and the feeling of hopelessness. The effect remained both at the 6-month and 1-year follow-up.
Alladin A, Alibhai A. "Cognitive hypnotherapy for depression: an empirical investigation."Int J Clin Exp Hypn. 2007 Apr;55(2):147-66. University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Less stress during operation
In a study at Yale University, patients were admitted to surgery in three different groups. One group received hypnosis, one group received calls and extra support and one group received standard admission support. The group receiving hypnosis was significantly calmer before the surgery than the other two groups. The groups that did not get hypnosis became more stressed when they entered the operating room, as opposed to those who received hypnosis, whose stress levels instead decreased by 56%.
Saadat H, Drummond-Lewis J, Maranets I, Kaplan D, Saadat A, Wang SM, Kain ZN. "Hypnosis reduces preoperative anxiety in adult patients." Anesth Analg. 2006 May;102(5):1394-6. Center for the Advancement of Perioperative Health, Department of Anesthesiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA.
TRAUMA
Overcoming trauma with hypnosis
In a small case study, three people were treated with hypnosis for clinical depression and phobias. The clients had to go back to their old trauma and reprogram the event, which led to the importance of the memories changing and thus also its impact on the client's life. A follow-up found that the positive effects remained.
Gravitz, Melvin A. "Memory reconstruction by hypnosis as a therapeutic technique. Psychotherapy: Theory, Research, Practice, Training, Vol 31(4), 1994, 687-691.
Deduction of trauma symtoms
Four Chinese women, two who were subjected to sexual abuse as a child and two who had suffered from domestic violence, were treated with situational hypnosis. Data from self-reporting, observations and objective measurements show that the hypnosis treatments led to a significant reduction in trauma symptoms.
Poon MW. "Hypnosis for complex trauma survivors: four case studies." Am J Clin Hypn.2009 Jan;51(3):263-71. Clinical Psychological Unit 3, Social Welfare Department, 14/F Cornwall House, Taikoo Place, 979 King's Road, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong.
SLEEP
Hypnos improving sleep patterns
In an American study of 84 adolescents aged 7-17 years suffering from insomnia, hypnosis proved to be very effective. 90% of the 70 people suffering from sleep disorders experienced an improvement. 52% of the 21 patients who used to suffer from recurrent awakening more than once a week got rid of their problems, 38% experienced an improvement. Of the patients who also suffered from other somatic problems, 87% experienced that the problems either disappeared completely or decreased with the help of the hypnosis.
Anbar RD, Slothower MP. "Hypnosis for treatment of insomnia in school-age children: a retrospective chart review." BMC Pediatr. 2006 Aug 16;6:23.Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA.
SMOKING
90.6% success rate
Of 43 patients who underwent this treatment, 39 have been reported free from tobacco during follow-up (6 months to 3 years after treatment). This represents 90.6% success rate when using hypnosis for smoking cessation.
University of Washington School of Medicine, Depts. of Anesthesiology and Rehabilitation Medicine, Int J Clin Exp Hypn. 2001 Jul;49(3):257-66. Barber J.
87% gave up smoking with help of hypnosis
In a field study with 93 male and 93 female patients, the possibility of facilitating smoking cessation with the help of hypnosis was investigated. At a 3-month follow-up, 86% of men and 87% of women were still tobacco-free.
Performance by gender in a stop-smoking program combining hypnosis and aversion. Johnson DL, Karkut RT. Adkar Associates, Inc., Bloomington, Indiana. Psychol Rep. 1994 Oct;75(2):851-7.
Hypnosis clients - twice as likely to be non-smokers after 2 years
A study of 71 smokers who received hypnotherapy for smoking 2 years ago, were double as likely to be smoke-free comparing to those who stopped by themselves.
Wynd, C. A. (2005). Guided Health Imagery for Smoking Cessation and Long‐Term Abstinence. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 37(3), 245-250.
Hypnosis more efficient than drugs during smoke cessation
Group hypnosis resulted in poorer results than individual hypnosis sessions. However, group hypnosis still shows more effective than drug use in smoking cessation.
Ahijevych, K., Yerardl, R., & Nedilsky, N. (2000). Descriptive outcomes of the American Lung Association of Ohio hypnotherapy smoking cessation program. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 48(4), 374-387.
Hypnosis is the most efficient method to quit smoking
According to the largest scientific comparison study ever made, hypnosis is the most effective way to quit smoking. In a meta-analysis, where statistically combined results from more than 600 studies on 72,000 people from the Americas and Europe and compared different methods to quit smoking, is it shown that hypnosis is over three times more effective than nicotine replacement and 15 times more effective than trying to quit itself.
University of Iowa, Journal of Applied Psychology, How One in Five Give Up Smoking. October 1992. (Also New Scientist, October 10, 1992.)
LOSING WEIGHT
Hypnosis is 30 times more effective in losing weight
A study with 60 women (with at least 20% overweight) received treatment with both individual hypnosis and group hypnosis. The treatment included hypnosis to strengthen self-confidence, make decisions and increase motivation. Hypnosis gave more effect than the results in a second control group. The women in the hypnosis group lost 7.7 more kilos per person compared to an average of 0.2 kg per person in the control group.
Cochrane, Gordon; Friesen, J. (1986). Hypnotherapy in weight loss treatment. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 54, 489-492.
Hypnotherapy clients are continuing to lost weight
109 people underwent behavioral therapy for weight control, some with and some without hypnosis. At the end of the 9-week program, both groups showed significant results. At the 8-month and 2-year follow-up, those who had used hypnosis continued to decrease significantly in weight, while those who had only undergone behavioral therapy showed only minor changes.
Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology (1985)
Hypnotherapy clients overcame weight challenges
Researchers analyzed 18 studies and compared cognitive behavioral therapies such as relaxation training, visualization exercises, self-control and goals with the same therapy supplemented with hypnosis. Those who underwent hypnosis decreased more in weight than those who did not undergo hypnosis. They also retained weight loss two years after the end of treatment.
Allison, D. B., & Faith, M. S. (1996). Hypnosis as an adjunct to cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy for obesity: a meta-analytic reappraisal. Journal of consulting and clinical psychology, 64(3), 513.
Hypnosis doubled the normal weight loss
A study on the effects of adding hypnosis to cognitive behavioral therapies for weight reduction, indicates that the benefits of hypnosis increased significantly over time.
Kirsch, Irving (1996). Hypnotic enhancement of cognitive-behavioral weight loss treatments--Another meta-reanalysis. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 64 (3), 517-519.
Hypnosis clients showed significantly lower weight after treatment
Two studies compared overweight adult women, smokers and non-smokers in a hypnosis-based weight loss program. Both groups achieved significant weight loss and reduced BMI. The follow-up study also showed significant weight loss and reduced BMI. In a later follow-up, the aversion therapy and the hypnosis program showed significantly more weight loss and more average number of lost pounds.
Johnson, D. L. (1997). Weight loss for women: studies of smokers and nonsmokers using hypnosis and multicomponent treatments with and without overt aversion. Psychological reports, 80(3), 931-933.
HEADACES AND MIGRAINE
Hypnosis reduces the frequency and intensity of migraine
A comparison between treatment of migraine with hypnosis and treatment of migraine with the drug prochlorperazine (Stemetil). The results show that the number of migraine attacks and the number of people suffering from black spots in the field of view of migraine was significantly lower in the group receiving hypnotherapy than the group receiving prochlorperazine. The conclusion is that further studies of hypnotherapy are justified in comparison to other treatments and not just in connection with the intake of tablets.
Anderson JA, Basker MA, Dalton R, Migraine and hypnotherapy, International Journal of Clinical & Experimental Hypnosis 1975; 23(1): 48-58.
96% experienced decreased headache frequency and / or intensity
A study of 30 children (with an average age of 15 years) and suffering from long-term recurrent headaches and the effects of hypnosis. Patients were taught, among other things, hypnosis-based relaxation. About 96% reported that the headache had decreased in frequency and / or intensity due to the hypnosis.
Anbar RD, Zoughbi GG. "Relationship of headache-associated stressors and hypnosis therapy outcome in children: a retrospective chart review". Am J Clin Hypn. 2008 Apr;50(4):335-41. Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital, State University of New York Upstate Medical University Syracuse, NY 13110, USA.
Hypnosis against migraine
Two patients with long-term problems with migraine were treated with hypnosis in combination with some kind of hand warming technique. Both patients were followed up (one after 12 months and one after 9 months). The treatment proved to be extremely effective in reducing the intensity, frequency and duration of the migraine.
Graham G.W. (1975) Hypnotic treatment for Migraine Headaches. International Journal of Clinical and experimental Hypnosis, 23:48.
Hypnosis reduces pain from headaches and anxiety
The improvement was confirmed by subjective evaluations collected through a questionnaire and by a significant reduction in anxiety scores.
Melis PM, Rooimans W, Spierings EL, Hoogduin CA, Treatment of chronic tension-type headache with hypnotherapy: a single-blind time controlled study. Headache 1991; 31(10): 686-9.
PAIN RELIEF
Hypnosis reduces pain and leads to faster recovery after surgery
Since 1992, hypnosis has been routinely used on more than 1,400 patients during surgery. The study has found that hypnosis that is used as a complement to sedation and local anesthesia has increased the patient's intraoperative comfort and limited anxiety, pain, demands for anxiolytic and analgesic drugs, and created optimal surgical conditions with faster recovery for the patient. The authors have reported their own clinical experience.
Faymonville, M. E., Defechereux, T., Joris, J., Adant, J. P., Hamoir, E., & Meurisse, M. (1998). Hypnosis and its application in surgery. Revue medicale de Liege, 53(7), 414-418.
Hypnosis reduces pain intensity
Analysis of the main effects, with both group and constant conditions, showed that the application of hypnosis as pain relief reduced reported pain intensity significantly more than reported pain discomfort.
Dahlgren LA, Kurtz RM, Strube MJ, Malone MD, Differential effects of hypnotic suggestion on multiple dimensions of pain. Journal of Pain & Symptom Management. 1995; 10(6): 464-70.
Hypnosis reduces pain from headaches and anxiety
The improvement was confirmed by subjective evaluations collected through a questionnaire and by a significant reduction in anxiety scores.
Melis PM, Rooimans W, Spierings EL, Hoogduin CA, Treatment of chronic tension-type headache with hypnotherapy: a single-blind time controlled study. Headache 1991; 31(10): 686-9.
Hypnosis reduces pain during post-treatment of burns
Patients in the hypnosis group reported mild pain during post-treatment treatment than patients in the control group. The results are used to copy previous studies of burn pain and hypnoanalgesia, explain differences in literature and highlight the potential significance of motivation in this patient group.
Patterson DR, Ptacek JT, Baseline pain as a moderator of hypnotic analgesia for burn injury treatment. Journal of Consulting & Clinical Psychology 1997; 65(1): 60-7.
Hypnosis reduces phantom pain
Hypnosis seems to be a useful complement to established strategies for the treatment of phantom pain and it would pay off with further and a more systematic investigation.
Oakley, D. A., Whitman, L. G., & Halligan, P. W. (2002). Hypnotic imagery as a treatment for phantom limb pain: two case reports and a review. Clinical Rehabilitation, 16(4), 368-377.
Hypnosis has a reliable and significant impact on acute and chronic pain
Hypnosis has been shown to reduce analogue pain and laboratory studies of the pain relief mechanisms have provided useful application for clinical populations. Studies showing central nervous system during hypnosis provide preliminary information on possible physiological mechanisms of hypnoanalgesia. Randomized controlled trials with clinical populations show that hypnosis has a reliable and significant impact on acute procedural pain and chronic pain. Method issues in this research area are discussed, as are methods for better integrating hypnosis in pain management.
Patterson DR, Jensen MP, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine (2003), Hypnosis and clinical pain. University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA USA 98104 Psychol Bull. 2003 Jul;129(4):495-521.
Hypnosis is a powerful tool in pain management
Attempts to elucidate cerebral mechanisms behind hypnoanalgesia, we measured regional cerebral blood flow with positron emission tomography in patients with fibromyalgia, under hypnosis-induced pain relief and wakefulness. The patients experienced less pain during hypnosis than at rest. The cerebral blood flow increased bilaterally in orbital and subcallosial cingulate cortices, the right part of the thalamus and the lower left half of the cervical lobe, and decreased bilaterally in the cingulate cortex. The observed blood flow pattern supports the notion of hypnoanalgesia as a multifactorial nature and with an interaction between the cortical and subcortical regions of the brain.
Wik, G., Fischer, H., Bragée, B., Finer, B., & Fredrikson, M. (1999). Functional anatomy of hypnotic analgesia: a PET study of patients with fibromyalgia. European Journal of Pain, 3(1), 7-12.
Hypnosis useful in emergency rooms
Hypnosis can be a useful aid in the emergency department. Its effectiveness in various clinical contexts has been repeated in controlled studies. Application to burns, pain, pediatrics, surgery, psychiatric problems (coma, somatoform disorders, anxiety and post-traumatic stress) and obstetric situations (eg, hyperemesis, pre-war and childbirth) are described.
Emerg Med Clin North Am. 2000 May;18(2):327-38, x. The use of hypnosis in emergency medicine. Peebles-Kleiger MJ, Menninger School of Psychiatry and Mental Health Sciences, Menninger Clinic, Topeka, KS, USA. peeblemj@menninger.edu
Hypnosis during surgery gives faster recovery
In two different studies, researchers have compared patients who have undergone various operations and who have received either anesthesia or only local anesthesia combined with hypnosis. In one group, a total of 78 women were operated for breast cancer. 18 of the women received hypnosis and local anesthesia instead of being anesthetized with anesthesia. In the second group, the thyroid gland was operated in 55 patients, half of whom were using hypnosis and local anesthesia. For both groups, the result was that the operation itself took a little longer for those who had been hypnotized compared to those who were anaesthetized. But the hypnosis greatly reduced the need for other anesthetics and after the surgery, these patients recovered significantly faster.
Berlière, M., Roelants, F., Watremez, C., Docquier, M. A., Piette, N., Lamerant, S., ... & Duhoux, F. P. (2018). The advantages of hypnosis intervention on breast cancer surgery and adjuvant therapy. The Breast, 37, 114-118.
Hypnosis helps in both acute and chronic pain
Randomized and controlled studies indicate that hypnosis has a significant impact on both acute and chronic pain states. Studies showing the activity of the central nervous system during a hypnosis session may possibly explain the likely physiological mechanism of action.
Patterson DR, Jensen MP. "Hypnosis and clinical pain." Psychol Bull. 2003 Jul;129(4):495-521. Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle 98104, USA.
Hypnosis against fibromyalgia
In a study at the University of Birmingham, a comparison was made between two groups that had fibromyalgia. One group received suggestions with hypnosis and one group received suggestions without hypnosis. The people who received hypnosis were able to control their pain more and also experienced that the pain itself decreased compared to the group that only received suggestions. With magnetic camera, one could also measure a change in certain specific areas of the brain that are activated during pain, in the group receiving hypnosis.
Derbyshire SW, Whalley MG, Oakley DA. "Fibromyalgia pain and its modulation by hypnotic and non-hypnotic suggestion: an fMRI analysis." Eur J Pain. 2009 May;13(5):542-50. Epub 2008 Jul 23. School of Psychology, University of Birmingham.
ADDICTIONS
Substantially more methadone users end up with hypnosis. 94% remained drug-free
The experimental group had significantly less discomfort and unauthorized use of drugs, and a significantly greater number ceased drug use. At six months of follow-up, 94% of the patients in the experimental group who had stopped taking drugs were still drug-free.
A comparative study of hypnotherapy and psychotherapy in the treatment of methadone addicts.
Manganiello, A. J. (1984). A comparative study of hypnotherapy and psychotherapy in the treatment of methadone addicts. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 26(4), 273-279.
Hypnosis shows 77% success results in drug addiction
Treatment used on 18 clients over the past 7 years has shown a 77% success factor, at least one one-year follow-up. 15 clients were treated for alcoholism or alcohol abuse, 2 clients were treated for cocaine abuse and 1 client for marijuana abuse.
Potter, G. (2004). Intensive therapy: utilizing hypnosis in the treatment of substance abuse disorders. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 47(1), 21-28.
Hypnosis for cocaine addiction
Hypnosis has been successfully used to overcome $ 500 / day (five grams) of cocaine addiction. The subject was a woman in her twenties. After about 8 months of abuse, she decided to use hypnosis in an attempt to overcome her addiction herself. During the next 4 months she used hypnosis three times a day and at the end of this period her abuse was gone, and she has been drug-free for the past 9 years. Hypnosis was the only tool she used, no support network of any kind was available.
Page, R. A., & Handley, G. W. (1993). The use of hypnosis in cocaine addiction. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 36(2), 120-123.
PHOBIAS
Hypnosis against dental anxiety
In a comparative study of different treatment methods in 137 patients with dental anxiety, it was found that, for the 77 subjects who completed the study, hypnosis and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) were more effective than anesthesia against dental care.
Wannemueller, A., Joehren, P., Haug, S., Hatting, M., Elsesser, K., & Sartory, G. (2011). A practice-based comparison of brief cognitive behavioural treatment, two kinds of hypnosis and general anaesthesia in dental phobia. Psychotherapy and psychosomatics, 80(3), 159-165.
STRENGTHENING THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
Hypnos för att stärka immunförsvaret
In an Australian study, 45 healthy children and 45 children treated with more than 10 respiratory tract infections were treated over the past year. One group received hypnotic suggestions to increase immunoglobulin A which are antibodies to counteract infections. The second group was given general relaxation and the third was in a control group. In the groups that received relaxation with or without hypnotic suggestions, the number of antibodies increased, but the hypnosis group showed best results.
Secretory immunoglobulin A increases during relaxation in children with and without recurrent upper respiratory tract infections." J Dev Behav Pediatr. 1996 Oct;17(5):311-6. Division of Psychology, Murdoch University, Western Australia.
IBS (IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME)
40 % experiences less symptoms
Researchers at the Sahlgrenska Academy can in two studies show that hypnosis both effectively treats and provides lasting relief even for those with severe IBS. The study includes 346 patients. In the first study, 138 patients with hypnotherapy were treated one hour a week for twelve weeks, while the rest received general advice on diet and relaxation exercises. In the group receiving hypnosis, 40 percent of patients experienced relief symptoms compared to 12 percent from the untreated group. In the second study, 208 patients who had previously received hypnotherapy were followed up, and it showed that 85% still had the effect of treatment up to seven years later - and that they still used the technique they learned.
Lindfors, P., Unge, P., Arvidsson, P., Nyhlin, H., Björnsson, E., Abrahamsson, H., & Simrén, M. (2012). Effects of gut-directed hypnotherapy on IBS in different clinical settings—results from two randomized, controlled trials. The American journal of gastroenterology, 107(2), 276.
Increased life quality
Patients who were diagnosed with IBS received 12 sessions of hypnotherapy over a period of 12 weeks (1 session per week). The patients had to fill out a form where they were told about their symptoms both before the treatment and three months after the trial. The study showed that hypnosterapine significantly increased the quality of life of patients and extraordinarily in male patients. The digestive system was also felt to work better, and especially in the female patients.
Al Sughayir MA. "Hypnotherapy for irritable bowel syndrome in Saudi Arabian patients."East Mediterr Health J. 2007 Mar-Apr; 13(2):301-8. Department of psychiatry, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Less anxious and better life quality
204 patients suffering from IBS were treated with hypnosis. 71% of patients responded to treatment. Of these, 81% felt that the effect was maintained over time, even when a follow-up was made six years later. Several of the patients also felt that they increased their quality of life, felt less worried, needed fewer doctor visits and less medicine after hypnotherapy.
Gonsalkorale WM, Miller V, Afzal A, Whorwell PJ. "Long term benefits of hypnotherapy for irritable bowel syndrome." Gut. 2003 Nov;52(11):1623-9. Department of Medicine, University Hospital of South Manchester, Manchester, UK.
RECOVERY
Faster recovery
Two studies from Harvard Medical School show that hypnosis significantly reduces the time it takes to heal.
Study 1: Six weeks after an ankle fracture, they showed in the hypnosis group corresponding to eight and a half weeks of healing.
Study 2: Three groups of people studied after breast reduction. The hypnosis group recovered "significantly faster" than the group receiving supportive care and control group.
Harvard Medical School, Carol Ginandes and Union Institute in Cincinnati, Patricia Brooks, Harvard University Gazette Online at http://www.hno.harvard.edu/gazette/2003/05.08/01-hypnosis.html.
DEMENTIA
Hypnosis slows down dementia
In a study on dementia and hypnosis conducted at the University of Liverpool, hypnosis slowed down the course of dementia. People with dementia and who were treated with hypnosis got better memory, could more easily concentrate and experienced increased social cohabitation, compared to the group that did not get hypnosis. The hypnosis group also experienced increased ability for relaxation and motivation, and became more active and engaged more in everyday management.
Duff, S., & Nightingale, D. (2007). Alternative approaches to supporting individuals with dementia: enhancing quality of life through hypnosis. Alzheimer's Care Today, 8(4), 321-331.
CANCER
Hypnos in cancer treatments
An article in the medical journal Psychiatric Medicine highlights evidence that hypnosis can be a powerful tool in the treatment of cancer patients. Hypnosis has proven valuable in helping cancer patients reduce nausea, relieve pain, fight anxiety, depression, frustration, anxiety and other negative emotions. Hypnosis has also been used as a visualization tool to bring about improvements in health, to help the patient experience control and to reduce side effects. The hypnosis has also not shown any unpleasant side effects and the positive effects persisted even after termination of hypnosis.
Levitan, A. A. (1992). The use of hypnosis with cancer patients. Psychiatric medicine, 10(1), 119-131.
Hypnosis against cancer pain
In a study on cancer patients who were to undergo bone marrow transplantation and chemotherapy, it was found that treatment with hypnosis was much more effective in counteracting pain than, for example, CBT (cognitive behavior therapy).
Syrjala, Karen L., Claudette Cummings, and Gary W. Donaldson. "Hypnosis or cognitive behavioral training for the reduction of pain and nausea during cancer treatment: a controlled clinical trial." Pain 48.2 (1992): 137-146.
Hypnosis can increase the chances of successful IVF treatments
A total of 89 couples underwent 98 IVF/ET treatment cycles with hypnosis . A significantly higher pregnancy rate was observed in the hypnosis group compared with the control group. In the hypnosis group 58.4% of the couples conceived while the rate in the control group was 30.2%
Levitas, E., Parmet, A., Lunenfeld, E., Bentov, Y., Burstein, E., Friger, M., & Potashnik, G. (2006). Impact of hypnosis during embryo transfer on the outcome of in vitro fertilization–embryo transfer: a case-control study. Fertility and sterility, 85(5), 1404-1408.
STRESS, ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION
Hypnotherapy decreasing anxiety
This study investigated the effect of hypnotherapy in 20 adults who sought help for stress, anxiety and depression and the effect of hypnotherapy. The statistical analyze showed significantly lower symptoms in all areas, and the best effect was held by people who had anxiety. The conclusion of the authors is that hypnosis is appropriate as a method of treatment for reactions caused by a fight / flight mode.
Gould, R. C., & Krynicki, V. E. (1989). Comparative effectiveness of hypnotherapy on different psychological symptoms. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 32(2), 110-117.
Hypnotherapy helping individuals with post-traumatic stress
32 patients suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder were divided into two groups. During the same period, one group received four hypnosis sessions of 1.5 hours per time and the other group received drugs for 14 nights. After two weeks there was a significant improvement in the group who received hypnosis, much better than the one who received the drug. The hypnosis group also started to sleep better and could trade everyday lives much better than the other group. The effect remained on the follow-up one month later.
Abramowitz EG, Barak Y, Ben-Avi I, Knobler HY. "Hypnotherapy in the treatment of chronic combat-related PTSD patients suffering from insomnia: a randomized, zolpidem-controlled clinical trial." Int J Clin Exp Hypn. 2008 Jul;56(3):270-80. Israel Defense Forces, Mental Health Department, Israel.
Decreased depression
At the University of Calgary in Canada, a comparison was made between the effect of CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and hypnotherapy for people with depression. The study involved 84 individuals during a duration of 16 weeks. At the end of the treatment, both groups had begun to feel better, but the hypnosis group achieved better results than the KBT group in reducing depression, anxiety and the feeling of hopelessness. The effect remained both at the 6-month and 1-year follow-up.
Alladin A, Alibhai A. "Cognitive hypnotherapy for depression: an empirical investigation."Int J Clin Exp Hypn. 2007 Apr;55(2):147-66. University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Less stress during operation
In a study at Yale University, patients were admitted to surgery in three different groups. One group received hypnosis, one group received calls and extra support and one group received standard admission support. The group receiving hypnosis was significantly calmer before the surgery than the other two groups. The groups that did not get hypnosis became more stressed when they entered the operating room, as opposed to those who received hypnosis, whose stress levels instead decreased by 56%.
Saadat H, Drummond-Lewis J, Maranets I, Kaplan D, Saadat A, Wang SM, Kain ZN. "Hypnosis reduces preoperative anxiety in adult patients." Anesth Analg. 2006 May;102(5):1394-6. Center for the Advancement of Perioperative Health, Department of Anesthesiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA.
TRAUMA
Overcoming trauma with hypnosis
In a small case study, three people were treated with hypnosis for clinical depression and phobias. The clients had to go back to their old trauma and reprogram the event, which led to the importance of the memories changing and thus also its impact on the client's life. A follow-up found that the positive effects remained.
Gravitz, Melvin A. "Memory reconstruction by hypnosis as a therapeutic technique. Psychotherapy: Theory, Research, Practice, Training, Vol 31(4), 1994, 687-691.
Deduction of trauma symtoms
Four Chinese women, two who were subjected to sexual abuse as a child and two who had suffered from domestic violence, were treated with situational hypnosis. Data from self-reporting, observations and objective measurements show that the hypnosis treatments led to a significant reduction in trauma symptoms.
Poon MW. "Hypnosis for complex trauma survivors: four case studies." Am J Clin Hypn.2009 Jan;51(3):263-71. Clinical Psychological Unit 3, Social Welfare Department, 14/F Cornwall House, Taikoo Place, 979 King's Road, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong.
SLEEP
Hypnos improving sleep patterns
In an American study of 84 adolescents aged 7-17 years suffering from insomnia, hypnosis proved to be very effective. 90% of the 70 people suffering from sleep disorders experienced an improvement. 52% of the 21 patients who used to suffer from recurrent awakening more than once a week got rid of their problems, 38% experienced an improvement. Of the patients who also suffered from other somatic problems, 87% experienced that the problems either disappeared completely or decreased with the help of the hypnosis.
Anbar RD, Slothower MP. "Hypnosis for treatment of insomnia in school-age children: a retrospective chart review." BMC Pediatr. 2006 Aug 16;6:23.Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA.
SMOKING
90.6% success rate
Of 43 patients who underwent this treatment, 39 have been reported free from tobacco during follow-up (6 months to 3 years after treatment). This represents 90.6% success rate when using hypnosis for smoking cessation.
University of Washington School of Medicine, Depts. of Anesthesiology and Rehabilitation Medicine, Int J Clin Exp Hypn. 2001 Jul;49(3):257-66. Barber J.
87% gave up smoking with help of hypnosis
In a field study with 93 male and 93 female patients, the possibility of facilitating smoking cessation with the help of hypnosis was investigated. At a 3-month follow-up, 86% of men and 87% of women were still tobacco-free.
Performance by gender in a stop-smoking program combining hypnosis and aversion. Johnson DL, Karkut RT. Adkar Associates, Inc., Bloomington, Indiana. Psychol Rep. 1994 Oct;75(2):851-7.
Hypnosis clients - twice as likely to be non-smokers after 2 years
A study of 71 smokers who received hypnotherapy for smoking 2 years ago, were double as likely to be smoke-free comparing to those who stopped by themselves.
Wynd, C. A. (2005). Guided Health Imagery for Smoking Cessation and Long‐Term Abstinence. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 37(3), 245-250.
Hypnosis more efficient than drugs during smoke cessation
Group hypnosis resulted in poorer results than individual hypnosis sessions. However, group hypnosis still shows more effective than drug use in smoking cessation.
Ahijevych, K., Yerardl, R., & Nedilsky, N. (2000). Descriptive outcomes of the American Lung Association of Ohio hypnotherapy smoking cessation program. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 48(4), 374-387.
Hypnosis is the most efficient method to quit smoking
According to the largest scientific comparison study ever made, hypnosis is the most effective way to quit smoking. In a meta-analysis, where statistically combined results from more than 600 studies on 72,000 people from the Americas and Europe and compared different methods to quit smoking, is it shown that hypnosis is over three times more effective than nicotine replacement and 15 times more effective than trying to quit itself.
University of Iowa, Journal of Applied Psychology, How One in Five Give Up Smoking. October 1992. (Also New Scientist, October 10, 1992.)
LOSING WEIGHT
Hypnosis is 30 times more effective in losing weight
A study with 60 women (with at least 20% overweight) received treatment with both individual hypnosis and group hypnosis. The treatment included hypnosis to strengthen self-confidence, make decisions and increase motivation. Hypnosis gave more effect than the results in a second control group. The women in the hypnosis group lost 7.7 more kilos per person compared to an average of 0.2 kg per person in the control group.
Cochrane, Gordon; Friesen, J. (1986). Hypnotherapy in weight loss treatment. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 54, 489-492.
Hypnotherapy clients are continuing to lost weight
109 people underwent behavioral therapy for weight control, some with and some without hypnosis. At the end of the 9-week program, both groups showed significant results. At the 8-month and 2-year follow-up, those who had used hypnosis continued to decrease significantly in weight, while those who had only undergone behavioral therapy showed only minor changes.
Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology (1985)
Hypnotherapy clients overcame weight challenges
Researchers analyzed 18 studies and compared cognitive behavioral therapies such as relaxation training, visualization exercises, self-control and goals with the same therapy supplemented with hypnosis. Those who underwent hypnosis decreased more in weight than those who did not undergo hypnosis. They also retained weight loss two years after the end of treatment.
Allison, D. B., & Faith, M. S. (1996). Hypnosis as an adjunct to cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy for obesity: a meta-analytic reappraisal. Journal of consulting and clinical psychology, 64(3), 513.
Hypnosis doubled the normal weight loss
A study on the effects of adding hypnosis to cognitive behavioral therapies for weight reduction, indicates that the benefits of hypnosis increased significantly over time.
Kirsch, Irving (1996). Hypnotic enhancement of cognitive-behavioral weight loss treatments--Another meta-reanalysis. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 64 (3), 517-519.
Hypnosis clients showed significantly lower weight after treatment
Two studies compared overweight adult women, smokers and non-smokers in a hypnosis-based weight loss program. Both groups achieved significant weight loss and reduced BMI. The follow-up study also showed significant weight loss and reduced BMI. In a later follow-up, the aversion therapy and the hypnosis program showed significantly more weight loss and more average number of lost pounds.
Johnson, D. L. (1997). Weight loss for women: studies of smokers and nonsmokers using hypnosis and multicomponent treatments with and without overt aversion. Psychological reports, 80(3), 931-933.
HEADACES AND MIGRAINE
Hypnosis reduces the frequency and intensity of migraine
A comparison between treatment of migraine with hypnosis and treatment of migraine with the drug prochlorperazine (Stemetil). The results show that the number of migraine attacks and the number of people suffering from black spots in the field of view of migraine was significantly lower in the group receiving hypnotherapy than the group receiving prochlorperazine. The conclusion is that further studies of hypnotherapy are justified in comparison to other treatments and not just in connection with the intake of tablets.
Anderson JA, Basker MA, Dalton R, Migraine and hypnotherapy, International Journal of Clinical & Experimental Hypnosis 1975; 23(1): 48-58.
96% experienced decreased headache frequency and / or intensity
A study of 30 children (with an average age of 15 years) and suffering from long-term recurrent headaches and the effects of hypnosis. Patients were taught, among other things, hypnosis-based relaxation. About 96% reported that the headache had decreased in frequency and / or intensity due to the hypnosis.
Anbar RD, Zoughbi GG. "Relationship of headache-associated stressors and hypnosis therapy outcome in children: a retrospective chart review". Am J Clin Hypn. 2008 Apr;50(4):335-41. Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital, State University of New York Upstate Medical University Syracuse, NY 13110, USA.
Hypnosis against migraine
Two patients with long-term problems with migraine were treated with hypnosis in combination with some kind of hand warming technique. Both patients were followed up (one after 12 months and one after 9 months). The treatment proved to be extremely effective in reducing the intensity, frequency and duration of the migraine.
Graham G.W. (1975) Hypnotic treatment for Migraine Headaches. International Journal of Clinical and experimental Hypnosis, 23:48.
Hypnosis reduces pain from headaches and anxiety
The improvement was confirmed by subjective evaluations collected through a questionnaire and by a significant reduction in anxiety scores.
Melis PM, Rooimans W, Spierings EL, Hoogduin CA, Treatment of chronic tension-type headache with hypnotherapy: a single-blind time controlled study. Headache 1991; 31(10): 686-9.
PAIN RELIEF
Hypnosis reduces pain and leads to faster recovery after surgery
Since 1992, hypnosis has been routinely used on more than 1,400 patients during surgery. The study has found that hypnosis that is used as a complement to sedation and local anesthesia has increased the patient's intraoperative comfort and limited anxiety, pain, demands for anxiolytic and analgesic drugs, and created optimal surgical conditions with faster recovery for the patient. The authors have reported their own clinical experience.
Faymonville, M. E., Defechereux, T., Joris, J., Adant, J. P., Hamoir, E., & Meurisse, M. (1998). Hypnosis and its application in surgery. Revue medicale de Liege, 53(7), 414-418.
Hypnosis reduces pain intensity
Analysis of the main effects, with both group and constant conditions, showed that the application of hypnosis as pain relief reduced reported pain intensity significantly more than reported pain discomfort.
Dahlgren LA, Kurtz RM, Strube MJ, Malone MD, Differential effects of hypnotic suggestion on multiple dimensions of pain. Journal of Pain & Symptom Management. 1995; 10(6): 464-70.
Hypnosis reduces pain from headaches and anxiety
The improvement was confirmed by subjective evaluations collected through a questionnaire and by a significant reduction in anxiety scores.
Melis PM, Rooimans W, Spierings EL, Hoogduin CA, Treatment of chronic tension-type headache with hypnotherapy: a single-blind time controlled study. Headache 1991; 31(10): 686-9.
Hypnosis reduces pain during post-treatment of burns
Patients in the hypnosis group reported mild pain during post-treatment treatment than patients in the control group. The results are used to copy previous studies of burn pain and hypnoanalgesia, explain differences in literature and highlight the potential significance of motivation in this patient group.
Patterson DR, Ptacek JT, Baseline pain as a moderator of hypnotic analgesia for burn injury treatment. Journal of Consulting & Clinical Psychology 1997; 65(1): 60-7.
Hypnosis reduces phantom pain
Hypnosis seems to be a useful complement to established strategies for the treatment of phantom pain and it would pay off with further and a more systematic investigation.
Oakley, D. A., Whitman, L. G., & Halligan, P. W. (2002). Hypnotic imagery as a treatment for phantom limb pain: two case reports and a review. Clinical Rehabilitation, 16(4), 368-377.
Hypnosis has a reliable and significant impact on acute and chronic pain
Hypnosis has been shown to reduce analogue pain and laboratory studies of the pain relief mechanisms have provided useful application for clinical populations. Studies showing central nervous system during hypnosis provide preliminary information on possible physiological mechanisms of hypnoanalgesia. Randomized controlled trials with clinical populations show that hypnosis has a reliable and significant impact on acute procedural pain and chronic pain. Method issues in this research area are discussed, as are methods for better integrating hypnosis in pain management.
Patterson DR, Jensen MP, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine (2003), Hypnosis and clinical pain. University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA USA 98104 Psychol Bull. 2003 Jul;129(4):495-521.
Hypnosis is a powerful tool in pain management
Attempts to elucidate cerebral mechanisms behind hypnoanalgesia, we measured regional cerebral blood flow with positron emission tomography in patients with fibromyalgia, under hypnosis-induced pain relief and wakefulness. The patients experienced less pain during hypnosis than at rest. The cerebral blood flow increased bilaterally in orbital and subcallosial cingulate cortices, the right part of the thalamus and the lower left half of the cervical lobe, and decreased bilaterally in the cingulate cortex. The observed blood flow pattern supports the notion of hypnoanalgesia as a multifactorial nature and with an interaction between the cortical and subcortical regions of the brain.
Wik, G., Fischer, H., Bragée, B., Finer, B., & Fredrikson, M. (1999). Functional anatomy of hypnotic analgesia: a PET study of patients with fibromyalgia. European Journal of Pain, 3(1), 7-12.
Hypnosis useful in emergency rooms
Hypnosis can be a useful aid in the emergency department. Its effectiveness in various clinical contexts has been repeated in controlled studies. Application to burns, pain, pediatrics, surgery, psychiatric problems (coma, somatoform disorders, anxiety and post-traumatic stress) and obstetric situations (eg, hyperemesis, pre-war and childbirth) are described.
Emerg Med Clin North Am. 2000 May;18(2):327-38, x. The use of hypnosis in emergency medicine. Peebles-Kleiger MJ, Menninger School of Psychiatry and Mental Health Sciences, Menninger Clinic, Topeka, KS, USA. peeblemj@menninger.edu
Hypnosis during surgery gives faster recovery
In two different studies, researchers have compared patients who have undergone various operations and who have received either anesthesia or only local anesthesia combined with hypnosis. In one group, a total of 78 women were operated for breast cancer. 18 of the women received hypnosis and local anesthesia instead of being anesthetized with anesthesia. In the second group, the thyroid gland was operated in 55 patients, half of whom were using hypnosis and local anesthesia. For both groups, the result was that the operation itself took a little longer for those who had been hypnotized compared to those who were anaesthetized. But the hypnosis greatly reduced the need for other anesthetics and after the surgery, these patients recovered significantly faster.
Berlière, M., Roelants, F., Watremez, C., Docquier, M. A., Piette, N., Lamerant, S., ... & Duhoux, F. P. (2018). The advantages of hypnosis intervention on breast cancer surgery and adjuvant therapy. The Breast, 37, 114-118.
Hypnosis helps in both acute and chronic pain
Randomized and controlled studies indicate that hypnosis has a significant impact on both acute and chronic pain states. Studies showing the activity of the central nervous system during a hypnosis session may possibly explain the likely physiological mechanism of action.
Patterson DR, Jensen MP. "Hypnosis and clinical pain." Psychol Bull. 2003 Jul;129(4):495-521. Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle 98104, USA.
Hypnosis against fibromyalgia
In a study at the University of Birmingham, a comparison was made between two groups that had fibromyalgia. One group received suggestions with hypnosis and one group received suggestions without hypnosis. The people who received hypnosis were able to control their pain more and also experienced that the pain itself decreased compared to the group that only received suggestions. With magnetic camera, one could also measure a change in certain specific areas of the brain that are activated during pain, in the group receiving hypnosis.
Derbyshire SW, Whalley MG, Oakley DA. "Fibromyalgia pain and its modulation by hypnotic and non-hypnotic suggestion: an fMRI analysis." Eur J Pain. 2009 May;13(5):542-50. Epub 2008 Jul 23. School of Psychology, University of Birmingham.
ADDICTIONS
Substantially more methadone users end up with hypnosis. 94% remained drug-free
The experimental group had significantly less discomfort and unauthorized use of drugs, and a significantly greater number ceased drug use. At six months of follow-up, 94% of the patients in the experimental group who had stopped taking drugs were still drug-free.
A comparative study of hypnotherapy and psychotherapy in the treatment of methadone addicts.
Manganiello, A. J. (1984). A comparative study of hypnotherapy and psychotherapy in the treatment of methadone addicts. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 26(4), 273-279.
Hypnosis shows 77% success results in drug addiction
Treatment used on 18 clients over the past 7 years has shown a 77% success factor, at least one one-year follow-up. 15 clients were treated for alcoholism or alcohol abuse, 2 clients were treated for cocaine abuse and 1 client for marijuana abuse.
Potter, G. (2004). Intensive therapy: utilizing hypnosis in the treatment of substance abuse disorders. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 47(1), 21-28.
Hypnosis for cocaine addiction
Hypnosis has been successfully used to overcome $ 500 / day (five grams) of cocaine addiction. The subject was a woman in her twenties. After about 8 months of abuse, she decided to use hypnosis in an attempt to overcome her addiction herself. During the next 4 months she used hypnosis three times a day and at the end of this period her abuse was gone, and she has been drug-free for the past 9 years. Hypnosis was the only tool she used, no support network of any kind was available.
Page, R. A., & Handley, G. W. (1993). The use of hypnosis in cocaine addiction. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 36(2), 120-123.
PHOBIAS
Hypnosis against dental anxiety
In a comparative study of different treatment methods in 137 patients with dental anxiety, it was found that, for the 77 subjects who completed the study, hypnosis and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) were more effective than anesthesia against dental care.
Wannemueller, A., Joehren, P., Haug, S., Hatting, M., Elsesser, K., & Sartory, G. (2011). A practice-based comparison of brief cognitive behavioural treatment, two kinds of hypnosis and general anaesthesia in dental phobia. Psychotherapy and psychosomatics, 80(3), 159-165.
STRENGTHENING THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
Hypnos för att stärka immunförsvaret
In an Australian study, 45 healthy children and 45 children treated with more than 10 respiratory tract infections were treated over the past year. One group received hypnotic suggestions to increase immunoglobulin A which are antibodies to counteract infections. The second group was given general relaxation and the third was in a control group. In the groups that received relaxation with or without hypnotic suggestions, the number of antibodies increased, but the hypnosis group showed best results.
Secretory immunoglobulin A increases during relaxation in children with and without recurrent upper respiratory tract infections." J Dev Behav Pediatr. 1996 Oct;17(5):311-6. Division of Psychology, Murdoch University, Western Australia.
IBS (IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME)
40 % experiences less symptoms
Researchers at the Sahlgrenska Academy can in two studies show that hypnosis both effectively treats and provides lasting relief even for those with severe IBS. The study includes 346 patients. In the first study, 138 patients with hypnotherapy were treated one hour a week for twelve weeks, while the rest received general advice on diet and relaxation exercises. In the group receiving hypnosis, 40 percent of patients experienced relief symptoms compared to 12 percent from the untreated group. In the second study, 208 patients who had previously received hypnotherapy were followed up, and it showed that 85% still had the effect of treatment up to seven years later - and that they still used the technique they learned.
Lindfors, P., Unge, P., Arvidsson, P., Nyhlin, H., Björnsson, E., Abrahamsson, H., & Simrén, M. (2012). Effects of gut-directed hypnotherapy on IBS in different clinical settings—results from two randomized, controlled trials. The American journal of gastroenterology, 107(2), 276.
Increased life quality
Patients who were diagnosed with IBS received 12 sessions of hypnotherapy over a period of 12 weeks (1 session per week). The patients had to fill out a form where they were told about their symptoms both before the treatment and three months after the trial. The study showed that hypnosterapine significantly increased the quality of life of patients and extraordinarily in male patients. The digestive system was also felt to work better, and especially in the female patients.
Al Sughayir MA. "Hypnotherapy for irritable bowel syndrome in Saudi Arabian patients."East Mediterr Health J. 2007 Mar-Apr; 13(2):301-8. Department of psychiatry, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Less anxious and better life quality
204 patients suffering from IBS were treated with hypnosis. 71% of patients responded to treatment. Of these, 81% felt that the effect was maintained over time, even when a follow-up was made six years later. Several of the patients also felt that they increased their quality of life, felt less worried, needed fewer doctor visits and less medicine after hypnotherapy.
Gonsalkorale WM, Miller V, Afzal A, Whorwell PJ. "Long term benefits of hypnotherapy for irritable bowel syndrome." Gut. 2003 Nov;52(11):1623-9. Department of Medicine, University Hospital of South Manchester, Manchester, UK.
RECOVERY
Faster recovery
Two studies from Harvard Medical School show that hypnosis significantly reduces the time it takes to heal.
Study 1: Six weeks after an ankle fracture, they showed in the hypnosis group corresponding to eight and a half weeks of healing.
Study 2: Three groups of people studied after breast reduction. The hypnosis group recovered "significantly faster" than the group receiving supportive care and control group.
Harvard Medical School, Carol Ginandes and Union Institute in Cincinnati, Patricia Brooks, Harvard University Gazette Online at http://www.hno.harvard.edu/gazette/2003/05.08/01-hypnosis.html.
DEMENTIA
Hypnosis slows down dementia
In a study on dementia and hypnosis conducted at the University of Liverpool, hypnosis slowed down the course of dementia. People with dementia and who were treated with hypnosis got better memory, could more easily concentrate and experienced increased social cohabitation, compared to the group that did not get hypnosis. The hypnosis group also experienced increased ability for relaxation and motivation, and became more active and engaged more in everyday management.
Duff, S., & Nightingale, D. (2007). Alternative approaches to supporting individuals with dementia: enhancing quality of life through hypnosis. Alzheimer's Care Today, 8(4), 321-331.
CANCER
Hypnos in cancer treatments
An article in the medical journal Psychiatric Medicine highlights evidence that hypnosis can be a powerful tool in the treatment of cancer patients. Hypnosis has proven valuable in helping cancer patients reduce nausea, relieve pain, fight anxiety, depression, frustration, anxiety and other negative emotions. Hypnosis has also been used as a visualization tool to bring about improvements in health, to help the patient experience control and to reduce side effects. The hypnosis has also not shown any unpleasant side effects and the positive effects persisted even after termination of hypnosis.
Levitan, A. A. (1992). The use of hypnosis with cancer patients. Psychiatric medicine, 10(1), 119-131.
Hypnosis against cancer pain
In a study on cancer patients who were to undergo bone marrow transplantation and chemotherapy, it was found that treatment with hypnosis was much more effective in counteracting pain than, for example, CBT (cognitive behavior therapy).
Syrjala, Karen L., Claudette Cummings, and Gary W. Donaldson. "Hypnosis or cognitive behavioral training for the reduction of pain and nausea during cancer treatment: a controlled clinical trial." Pain 48.2 (1992): 137-146.