Trending News: New study shows hypnosis helps ameliorate anxiety
If you struggle with anxiety, you may want to consider hypnosis. That’s because a recent study appearing in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis shows hypnotherapy may be highly beneficial.
Investigators at the University of Hartford in Connecticut analyzed 15 studies incorporating 17 trials where clinical hypnosis was used as a tool for anxiety reduction. Remarkably, the findings showed a 79% reduction in symptoms for those who took part in clinical hypnotherapy.
Over the long term, the study also showed an 84% reduction in anxiety symptoms in 7 of the trials. Finally, the research revealed that clinical hypnotherapy is most effective when combined with other psychological interventions.
Men’s Variety spoke to Franklin Moore, a licensed mental health counselor, and clinical hypnotherapist, to get his impressions of the findings.
“This line of research is promising because it shows hypnosis is a powerful and mindful way to help people live calmer, more peaceful lives,” Moore said. “The great thing about hypnotherapy is that [anxiety] suffers can learn a skill that can be called on as part of a comprehensive approach to wellness,” adds Moore.
According to published data from the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 31% of Americans live with some kind of an anxiety disorder.
In recent years, a renewed interest in hypnosis has occurred as people look for natural coping strategies to help them deal with stress. Part of this interest relates to changing perceptions about the process of hypnotherapy.
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“The stereotypes have started to fade. At one time, people equated hypnosis with swinging pocket watches and mind control. Today, health consumers are much savvier and recognize hypnosis isn’t something someone ‘does to you’.
Instead, it’s a skill that can be learned, similar to meditation, that can be taught for healthier living,” said Deb McKenna, a licensed psychotherapist and certified hypnotherapist.
Have you undergone hypnosis for anxiety or stress reduction? If so, what was your experience?
