by Charlotte Jane Grimaldi Phillips Dip.Hyp NLP Pract. HPD
Depression is a complex mental health condition that affects millions of people in the UK. While traditional treatments like medication and talk therapy are often effective, many individuals are turning to hypnotherapy as a complementary approach to manage and overcome their depression. This article explores how hypnotherapy can help those struggling with depression and the research supporting its efficacy.
Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic technique that uses hypnosis to create a state of focused attention and heightened suggestibility. In this relaxed state, individuals can access their subconscious mind, allowing for positive changes in thoughts, feelings, and behaviours[4].
When used for depression, hypnotherapy aims to:
- Identify and address root causes
- Break negative thinking patterns
- Enhance mood and self-esteem
- Improve sleep and energy levels
- Develop coping strategies
The Effectiveness of Hypnotherapy for Depression
Research has shown promising results for the use of hypnotherapy in treating depression:
- A scoping review published in 2024 found that hypnotherapy, often used as an adjunct treatment alongside other psychotherapies, was effective in reducing symptoms of depression in most studies examined[2].
- A meta-analysis of hypnotic interventions suggested that hypnotherapy for depression could be as effective as other well-established psychological interventions such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy[5].
- A 2016 study using brain scans of 57 people undergoing hypnosis found changes in areas of the brain that allowed for greater emotional control and reduced feelings of self-consciousness[5].
How Hypnotherapy Helps with Depression
Addressing Root Causes
Hypnotherapy allows individuals to access their subconscious mind, where deeply-held beliefs and past experiences may be contributing to their depression. By identifying and addressing these underlying issues, hypnotherapy can help resolve “unfinished business” that may be perpetuating negative thoughts and behaviours[4].
Breaking Negative Thought Patterns
Depression often involves persistent negative thinking. Hypnotherapy uses suggestion techniques to encourage a more positive mindset, helping individuals reframe their thoughts and develop a more optimistic outlook[4].
Enhancing Mood and Self-esteem
Through positive suggestions and visualisations, hypnotherapy can help boost mood and self-esteem. Patients may be guided to imagine themselves feeling confident, happy, and successful, reinforcing these positive states in their daily lives[5].
Improving Sleep and Energy Levels
Many people with depression struggle with sleep disturbances and low energy. Hypnotherapy can address these issues by promoting relaxation and suggesting improved sleep patterns, which in turn can boost overall energy and well-being[4].
Developing Coping Strategies
Hypnotherapy can help individuals learn and reinforce coping strategies for managing stress and negative emotions. These techniques can be practised outside of therapy sessions, empowering patients to take an active role in their recovery[3].
Complementing Other Treatments
While hypnotherapy can be effective on its own, it often works best when combined with other treatments for depression. Many hypnotherapists use hypnotherapy in conjunction with other psychotherapeutic approaches, such as CBT or interpersonal therapy[4].
Steve G. Kopp, a licensed mental health counsellor and marriage and family therapist, notes that hypnotherapy “seems most effective complementing cognitive behavioural therapy or interpersonal psychotherapy”[6].
The Hypnotherapy Process
A typical hypnotherapy session for depression might involve:
- An initial consultation to discuss the patient’s history and goals
- Guiding the patient into a relaxed, hypnotic state
- Using suggestion techniques to address negative thought patterns and behaviours
- Exploring underlying causes of depression
- Teaching self-hypnosis techniques for use between sessions
Sessions usually last an hour and half, and the number of sessions required can vary depending on the individual’s needs and progress[6].
Considerations and Limitations
While hypnotherapy shows promise in treating depression, it’s important to note that it may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia or severe personality disorders, may not be good candidates for hypnotherapy[6].
Additionally, hypnotherapy should be considered a complementary treatment rather than a replacement for traditional depression therapies. It’s essential to work with a qualified mental health professional to develop a comprehensive treatment plan[6].
Hypnotherapy offers a unique and potentially powerful approach to managing and overcoming depression. By addressing root causes, breaking negative thought patterns, and enhancing overall well-being, hypnotherapy can provide valuable support for those struggling with depression. As research continues to demonstrate its efficacy, hypnotherapy is becoming an increasingly recognised and respected tool in the treatment of depression.
If you’re considering hypnotherapy for depression, it’s important to consult with a qualified hypnotherapist who has experience in treating mental health conditions. With the right support and approach, hypnotherapy can be a transformative experience, helping you to reclaim your mental health and well-being.
Research
[1] https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/mental-health-services/
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38416132/
[3] https://www.transformationsnetwork.com/post/is-hypnotherapy-an-effective-depression-treatment
[4] https://www.hypnotherapy-directory.org.uk/topics/depression.html
[5] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hypnosis-for-anxiety
[6] https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/hypnotherapy
[7] https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mental-health/treatments-and-wellbeing/hypnosis-and-hypnotherapy
[8] https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/hypnotherapy-market-report