Is hypnotherapy a legitimate treatment method?

Deeper forms of hypnosis may appear to make you sleep, but you are actually still aware throughout the whole process. — Filepic

I have been asked by readers of this column to write about hypnotherapy as an alternative therapeutic approach.

This is especially as it has been the subject of intrigue, and to some extent, scepticism, within the mental health community and the public.

However, as a psychiatrist, I understand the importance of examining this practice with a critical, yet open mind, especially as it gains popularity among those seeking unconventional methods to address psychological issues.

Neither manipulation nor magic

Hypnotherapy involves inducing a state of focused attention and heightened suggestibility in a person, often referred to as a trance.

This state is typically achieved through relaxation techniques, guided imagery and verbal repetition.

The common perceptions and fears of hypnosis from which hypnotherapy is derived are often fuelled by its portrayal in pop culture.

Many people fear that undergoing hypnotherapy means losing control of their actions and thoughts, becoming completely at the mercy of the hypnotist where they can be made to do things against their will.

Another common fear is that hypnosis involves mind control or brainwashing, where the hypnotist can implant suggestions or alter a person’s beliefs and behaviours permanently.

There is a widespread belief that under hypnosis, individuals can be forced to reveal their deepest secrets and private thoughts, leaving them vulnerable.

Some people worry that they might get “stuck” in a hypnotic trance and be unable to return to their normal state of consciousness.

Many associate hypnotherapy with stage hypnosis shows, where participants are made to perform silly or embarrassing acts, leading to the perception that hypnotherapy is more about entertainment than legitimate therapeutic practice.

Undoubtedly, movies have depicted hypnotherapy as a magical, quick-fix solution for complex psychological issues, creating unrealistic expectations about its effectiveness and leading to disappointment or scepticism.

In reality, hypnosis is not a stage act or some magical performance.

Most people remember everything that happens during hypnosis.

You remain aware of who you are and where you are, and remember what happens during a hypnosis session.

The hypnotist or hypnotherapist guides hypnosis, but hypnosis is also something we can do to ourselves, i.e. self-hypnosis.

You cannot be made to do anything against your will.

You will not reveal any information that you wish to remain secret.

You do not lose control over your behaviour.

Hypnosis makes it easier to experience suggestions, but does not force you to have certain experiences.

Hypnosis is not sleeping.

Some deeper forms of hypnosis could make you appear to be asleep because your body is very still and quiet, but you are not asleep during the process.

How it can help

Clinical hypnosis or hypnotherapy is a type of medical therapy that is often used as part of a treatment plan that includes traditional medical approaches.

In hypnotherapy, the therapist makes suggestions intended to help the individual address specific issues, such as anxiety, pain or addictive behaviours.

According to London College of Clinical Hypnosis Asia principal Sheila Menon, clinical hypnotherapy is considered a safe therapy option with little evidence of side effects.

She said that in just one session of learning self-hypnosis, it can provide a sense of inner calm and the ability to cope with everyday stress.

Of course, serious conditions take a little longer, she added.

Sheila introduced clinical hypnotherapy training to Malaysia 18 years ago.

She has collaborated with the Malaysian Society of Clinical Hypnosis (MSCH), of which she is currently the secretary, to ensure effective practice guidelines and professional training for both medical and healthcare professionals, as well as people wishing to train as future clinical hypnotherapists.

She reported that the Malaysian Association of Anaesthesiologists recognises clinical hypnosis as a sub-specialisation for both chronic and acute pain management.

Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) is also using hypnotherapy, among other techniques, to address dental phobias and dental anxiety.

And the Health Ministry recognises the role of hypnotherapy in pain management, mood disorders and addictive illness.

It appears that in international practice too, hypnotherapy has shown great potential as an effective tool for managing acute and chronic pain.

This is as it can help patients reduce their perception of pain and improve their quality of life.

These reports suggest that by promoting relaxation and helping individuals reframe negative thoughts, hypnotherapy helps in reducing symptoms of anxiety and stress.

Hypnotherapy has also been known to help individuals quit smoking, lose weight and overcome phobias by altering their behavioural patterns and responses.

For those suffering from insomnia or other sleep disorders, hypnotherapy may hold the key to inducing relaxation and creating a conducive mindset for better sleep.

Scientific evidence

Research on hypnotherapy has produced mixed results.

Some studies have shown promising outcomes.

A study published in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis found that hypnotherapy can be effective for pain management, particularly in chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Other studies suggest that hypnotherapy could be beneficial in reducing the symptoms of anxiety and stress-related disorders, although more robust studies are needed to draw definitive conclusions.

According to Major (R) Dr Amit J Logan, who holds a specialist diploma in medical hypnosis, his patients who undergo medical hypnosis as an adjunct therapy to conventional treatment have demonstrated positive outcomes in recovery and condition management.

He has found medical hypnosis to be particularly useful in managing chronic pain and addressing physical, emotional and behavioural issues.

One of his patients, medically classified as Class III obese or morbidly obese, struggled to lose weight despite trying multiple approaches to address her overeating.

She was open to trying clinical hypnotherapy and underwent a series of sessions.

Since beginning the therapy, she has reported improvements in her overall well-being, felt more relaxed, and experienced a steady weight loss of 0.5-1 kilogrammes per week.

Like Dr Amit, the number of certified and licensed medical professionals in Malaysia incorporating hypnotherapy in their practice is increasing.

Use appropriately

Despite its potential benefits, hypnotherapy is taking baby steps in being universally accepted within the medical community.

In Malaysia, mental health practitioners should remain open to alternative therapies like hypnotherapy, while maintaining a critical eye on the quality of research supporting its use.

Hypnotherapy may not be suitable for everyone.

For example, hypnosis may not be appropriate for people with severe mental health issues, such as psychotic symptoms, including hallucinations and delusions.

It might also be inappropriate for someone who uses drugs or alcohol.

Therefore, it is crucial for hypnotherapists to screen clients thoroughly and proceed with caution.

While hypnotherapy holds promise for certain conditions, it is not a magic bullet.

As with any therapeutic intervention, it is essential to consider the evidence, weigh the benefits and risks, and tailor the approach to individual needs.

Hypnotherapy is usually used along with other therapies and treatments as part of a complete treatment plan.

The decision to use hypnotherapy in a clinical setting as a sole treatment, or as an add-on treatment to psychotherapy or drugs, should be made in consultation with a qualified professional who is trained in the uses and limitations of hypnotherapy.

Prof Datuk Dr Andrew Mohanraj is a consultant psychiatrist, the Malaysian Mental Health Association president and Taylor’s University Impact Lab on Mental Health & Wellbeing director. For more information, email [e-mail]. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only, and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.