What is hypnosis?
Hypnosis (hypnotherapy), like sleep, puts the mind in an altered, relaxed state. Under hypnosis, the mind can still reach memories, sensations, and other thoughts. Hypnosis is often used for things such as breaking bad habits, controlling pain, and managing stress.
Some people have trouble becoming hypnotized. Others are more receptive to this form of therapy. Hypnotism won't work if the person does not want to be hypnotized. Hypnosis requires trust and imagination. While hypnotized, a person can interrupt the process at any time.
When you are hypnotized, your heart rate may decrease, your body temperature may change, and blood flow to certain areas may be altered. The state of deep relaxation can stop people from thinking about pain and other concerns. Hypnotism has been used as a pain reliever during certain surgeries, such as dental procedures.
Other uses for hypnotism include:
The American Society of Clinical Hypnosis states that hypnosis should only be done by licensed clinicians competent in the use of hypnotic treatments. This includes such professionals as doctors, licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), master's prepared nurses, and marital/family counselors.
Hypnosis and memory recovery
TV shows often portray hypnosis being used to access and recall hidden or vague memories. But research has not shown this method to be reliable. There is a widespread belief that hypnosis produces accurate memories and that people who have been hypnotized tend to feel confident that their memories are accurate. This can lead to the persistence of false memories. Researchers have found that hypnosis does not work well as a memory-recovery method.
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