Hypnosis - Drug Addiction

This involves placing someone in a ‘trance’ or deeply relaxed state so that they will be more open to suggestions and ideas from the hypnotherapist. This state of heightened awareness will enable them to take on board ideas which they previously would not have considered.

Being in a trance can cause people to ‘open up’ and talk about their experiences in a free and uninhibited manner. It is allows people to remember things, right down to the smallest detail and to organise their thoughts in an organised manner.

How does this relate to addiction?

The aim of this treatment is to encourage the addict to regain control over their life. At present they are controlled by their addiction which may have occurred due to events in their past life.

Hypnosis can encourage the person to talk about the early parts of their life so that they can see how this has influenced their thoughts and actions. For example, if something traumatic or damaging happened in their childhood then this may be a trigger for their addiction.

The hypnotherapist will encourage the addict to set goals as well as looking at ways of changing their behaviour. Reflecting upon events in their past as well as looking at their current way of life can be undertaken. This enables the addict to realise that there may be a series of events (or fixed way of thinking) which have led to their addiction and how this might be broken.

The aim is to change their way of thinking or dealing with things as well as gain a greater understanding of their addiction. This will hopefully, prevent the risk of a relapse.

A hypnosis session can include a look at self-esteem, body image, emotional issues and relationships with other people.

The hypnotherapist will provide the addict with a series of small exercises to try at home which will help to build confidence and self-esteem. They will also help to improve self-control and willpower.

Hypnosis works well in conjunction with others forms of treatment such as a self-help group, support network or counselling.

Finding a hypnotherapist

This is where it is important to do your research. Make sure you find a suitably qualified and reputable therapist who deals with addictions.

Word of mouth, the internet and the Yellow Pages are useful ways of finding a hypnotherapist.

This is not available on the NHS so you will have to pay for this treatment. Costs vary according to expertise, duration, techniques and location so visit a few before making a decision.

A session usually lasts from 30 minutes to an hour and can cost around £40 to £50. The number of sessions you require will depend upon your addiction.

Another cheaper option is self-hypnosis. You can buy CD’s or books which contain methods of practising hypnosis at home.

Hypnosis is only carried out once an addict has gone through rehab or detox as this is the time that they will be most receptive to this form of treatment.