Hypnosis – miracle cure or mumbo jumbo?

Hypnosis is a state of mind characterised by deep relaxation and focused attention. The therapeutic application of hypnosis is known as hypnotherapy. It is a recognised method of treatment. Under hypnosis, the subconscious – which stores many memories and impressions – is easier to reach and influence.

This way it is easier, for example, to disperse negative beliefs and behaviours more directly and help your mind and body to establish new, healthier alternatives. Or we become less sensitive to pain, for example during an operation. That’s why hypnosis is often used to achieve therapeutic goals or change behaviour.

How does a hypnosis session work?

Lionel Müller, a critical care specialist and hypnosis therapist at the medical hypnosis centre in Bern, explains that a hypnosis session for psychotherapy and/or coaching usually comprises several steps. “In an initial consultation, I listen to the patient’s goals and wishes, review what has happened in the past and discuss how they want things to change. Next I explain the hypnosis process in detail to reduce any uncertainty. And then we get started with the hypnotherapy.”

The patient is guided into a deep state of relaxation where they are more receptive to positive ideas and beneficial suggestions. They are then gently brought back and a follow-up discussion takes place. The number of sessions required varies from person to person. Some need two or three sessions, while others use hypnosis as part of a longer-lasting process of change.

Areas of application: where hypnotherapy can help

Hypnosis is used in various areas of medicine and psychotherapy. For example:  

What are the risks and dangers of hypnotherapy?

“Hypnosis is a very safe and effective method of treatment that has proven itself in a broad range of applications,” says specialist Lionel Müller. Many international studies have confirmed the effectiveness of hypnotherapy. Many experts and clinics offer hypnosis in Switzerland. In a survey conducted by the Swiss Professional Association for Hypnotherapy, over 70% of patients reported positive experiences with hypnosis.

Hypnosis doesn’t pose any risk as such, but since it is a therapeutic procedure and can trigger strong emotions, especially when dealing with difficult experiences, a professional framework in which these experiences can be absorbed, discussed and integrated is of central importance.

Does hypnotherapy also work on children?

Hypnosis can also be effective and helpful for children. Children are often particularly receptive to hypnosis as they have a vivid imagination and a natural tendency to fantasise. Suggestion can help, for example, with acute issues such as social anxiety and exam pressure or when the child exhibits undesirable behaviour such as bedwetting or thumb sucking.

However, hypnosis for children should be age-appropriate and fun. Parents should look for an expert who has experience with children and who can create a trusting and safe environment.

Key to hypnosis: choose the right professional

As there are still many myths surrounding hypnosis, choosing the right specialist is crucial. “Many people are still concerned and sceptical about the use of hypnosis,” says Müller. It goes hand in hand with a fear of losing control and manipulation. You immediately think of stage hypnosis, where people suddenly do crazy things. In actual fact, no one can be hypnotised against their will. However, this also means that if you are not inwardly ready for hypnosis or there is inner resistance, this method may fail or be less successful.

It is therefore crucial that you contact a qualified specialist whom you trust, who ideally has a medical background and is affiliated to a professional association, such as the Gesellschaft für klinische Hypnose und Hypnotherapie Schweiz GHYPS (Swiss Society for Clinical Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy) or the Schweizerischer Berufsverband für Hypnosetherapie SBVH (Swiss Professional Association for Hypnosis Therapy). The first consultation focuses on discussing the patient’s goals and initial situation in order to build up a relationship of trust so they can be sure that they’re in safe hands. This paves the way for experiencing real change.

Self-hypnosis: relaxation at home

Self-hypnosis can help reduce stress, support positive changes in behaviour, and promote general well-being. Instructions for self-hypnosis can be found online or in books, and appropriate training courses are also available.

To begin with, it may be enough to enter a meditative state and repeat sentences in your mind such as: “I’m safe” or “I’m completely relaxed”. There are also more and more apps on the market that offer relaxation and hypnotherapy lessons, such as the “Breeth” app. “Here too, however, it’s good to be cautious and talk to a professional first,” says Müller.