Does hypnosis really work as a therapy?

Asked by BraveWarrior (1330

) November 2nd, 2009

I have 2 hang-ups which can cause real health issues. One is that I can’t swallow pills or capsules unless they are really small (thankfully many antibiotics come in liquid form) and I can’t do eye drops (with both glaucoma & macular degeneration throughout my family, no less). I’ve seen ads for stopping smoking or losing weight with hypnosis, but never knew anyone who tried hypnosis & was wondering if it really does work & if it might work in a situation like mine. Anyone have any personal or anecdotal experience?

Observing members: 0

Composing members: 0

3 Answers

It really varies depending on the individual, but yes, some people find it helpful. Hypnosis by a hypnotherapist didn’t do much for me, but I do use a form of self-hypnosis to deal with anxiety and panic attacks.

MissAnthrope (21511

)“Great Answer” (0

) Flag as…

It works if you want it to.

CMaz (26303

)“Great Answer” (0

) Flag as…

There was a study done…....I don’t have the citation, on the use of hypnosis to stop smoking.
It found that 1 year later, those who had been hypnotized to stop and those who attempted to stop on their own has exactly the same success rate. I don’t know what that rate was.

I think that most hypnosis works when its done in front of an audience, or done by an authoritative hypnotist (not your relative or friend). It really works in the moment but breaks down for habit control when you’re dependent on yourelf to do it.

Carol (731

)“Great Answer” (0

) Flag as…