Hypnotherapy For Depression 

Hypnosis and hypnotherapy for depression

Depression affects many people across Australia. While there are numerous avenues for treatment, hypnosis and hypnotherapy are gaining increasing recognition as a viable option in the fight against depression. Read on for our explainer on the basics of hypnosis and hypnotherapy, how they can help with depression, and why they may be a viable treatment for some people. 

What is hypnosis?

Hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness characterised by reduced awareness of the outside world and increased suggestibility. People who undergo hypnosis may feel relaxed or experience a heightened sense of focus and concentration. During a hypnosis session, a therapist will talk to the patient in gentle tones, encouraging them to relax and explore their inner thoughts and feelings.

What is hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is simply therapy that utilises the power of suggestion while in a hypnotic trance. The process involves teaching individuals to concentrate and focus by accepting and responding to suitable suggestions while also promoting mental and physical relaxation. This can be further enhanced by deepening the trance, after which the therapist can collaborate with the patient towards achieving their therapy goals.

Additionally, post-hypnotic suggestions may be given for long-term benefits. Hypnotherapy is based on the notion that by bringing unconscious issues to light via suggestion while in an altered state of consciousness, lasting change can be achieved more easily than in conventional therapy sessions. A trained professional is required to administer such treatments, as without proper instruction it can be risky for the patient.

How can hypnosis and hypnotherapy help with depression?

Research has shown that hypnosis and hypnotherapy may be beneficial for treating mild to moderate depression symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, low self-esteem, poor concentration, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse problems, anxiety and more. One study found that participants experienced significant improvements in their mood after receiving just one session of hypnotic suggestion therapy. Furthermore, some studies suggest that combining traditional psychotherapeutic techniques with hypnotic ones may yield better results than either technique alone.

Why you should consider hypnosis and hypnotherapy

Hypnosis and hypnotherapy have been found to have no side effects when administered by a qualified professional - unlike many pharmaceuticals often prescribed for depression treatment which may cause drowsiness or other adverse reactions in some individuals. Additionally, these methods offer an alternative route for anyone not wishing to commit to long-term psychotherapeutic treatments, although successful outcomes still require multiple sessions over time.

Get in touch with Franco Greco for a consult

If you’re suffering from depression or know someone who is then it's worth considering exploring your options with hypnotism or hypnotherapy alongside traditional regulated therapies or medications available in Australia today. If you'd like to find out more then please contact Franco to discuss your individual case further.