Hypnosis can be effective in helping people cope with pain, stress and anxiety. Keep in mind, though, that health care providers typically suggest other treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, for those conditions before or along with hypnosis. Hypnosis may be effective as part of a larger treatment plan for quitting smoking or losing weight.
Hypnosis isn’t right for everyone. Not all people are able to enter a state of hypnosis fully enough for it to work well. In general, the more quickly and easily people reach a state of relaxation and calm during a session, the more likely it is that they will benefit from hypnosis.
Hypnosis may help with pain due to burns, cancer, childbirth, irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, jaw problems, dental procedures and headaches.
Hypnosis may ease hot flashes caused by menopause.
Hypnosis has been used with some success to treat sleep problems, bed-wetting, smoking and overeating.
Hypnosis has been used to ease side effects from chemotherapy and radiation treatment.
Hypnosis may help reduce anxiety associated with fears and phobias