6 Types of Anxiety Hypnotherapy May Cure
British Psychological Society states that hypnosis is a proven method for treating things from pain to stress to irritable bowel syndrome? And when it comes to anxiety hypnotherapy is a great tool.
When most of us hear the word hypnosis, we picture getting called up on stage and being hypnotized to bark like a dog, or walk like a penguin, or something equally embarrassing. In essence, we imagine a form of mind control, which sounds quite scary.
But fear not!
Real hypnotherapy is nothing like that at all. Clinical hypnosis is a tool used to create a state of extreme relaxation and focused attention.
Clients under hypnosis are fully aware of what is happening and are still in control of themselves; hypnosis simply helps them more easily and readily absorb and accept the therapeutic ideas being suggested.
As you can imagine, this is wonderful for patients with anxiety. Read on to discover the six types of anxiety hypnotherapy can help.
1. Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) involves chronic anxiety and extreme worry/stress over many different things. This anxiety and stress occurs even when there is nothing specific triggering them.
People with GAD also tend to overthink and over-analyze situations; they may become overly concerned about issues such as their health or finances and find it difficult or impossible to control these thoughts.
2. Social Anxiety Disorder
Social anxiety disorder, also called social phobia, involves extreme fear and anxiety of being judged by others.
People with social phobia fear being criticized, laughed at or embarrassed in front of others in everyday situations to the point that they may begin to avoid social situations. Symptoms can be physical and psychological and can include nausea, trembling, trouble speaking, and excessive worry.
3. Specific Phobias
Someone with a specific phobia may have an extreme reaction when confronted with their phobia (at times even if they simply imagine it or see it on television) and will go to lengths to avoid it. They experience feelings of panic, fear, and even terror, often despite knowing that their fears are irrational.
4. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by repeated behaviors and/or intrusive, unwanted thoughts or obsessions. Those with OCD often perform rituals in an attempt to stem their anxiety, which can work in the short term but leads to increased anxiety in the long term.
An example of a repeated ritual is the need to check that the door is locked a certain number of times before leaving for work.
5. Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurs after a person has experienced (or witnessed) a very traumatic event, such as active combat, an assault, or even a traumatic birth. PTSD often includes flashbacks, panic attacks, recurrent nightmares, or intrusive thoughts. People with PTSD often have a hard time relaxing and may attempt to avoid anything related to the traumatic event.
6. Panic Disorder
Panic disorder involves a person having a panic attack that appears to happen for no reason and with little or no warning. Such panic attacks are intense, and involve overwhelming feelings and thoughts of anxiety. They also include physical symptoms, such as dizziness, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
People suffering from panic disorder often become fearful of experiencing another panic attack, leading to increased anxiety.
Are There Other Types of Anxiety Hypnotherapy Can Help?
Hypnotherapy can be used to treat all types of mental disorders, including other types of anxiety than those described above. A new mother with postpartum anxiety, for example, would be an excellent candidate for hypnotherapy.
If you’d like to know more about how hypnotherapy can help your clients, contact us today.
