Hypnotherapy: Can It Be Used To Treat Alcoholism?

by: Khaiyong Ng

Hypnotherapy was first discovered in the ancient times by the Greeks, Romans and Egyptians as a healing art. Until today, it has evolved over the generations and has been used to treat a variety of illnesses, even alcoholism. It has been proven to be safe and effective and has been adopted by many healthcare practitioners as an alternative therapy. But till what extent is hypnotherapy effective in treating alcoholism? Let's find out.

As we all know, the therapeutic effect of hypnotherapy ranges from its hypnosis effects and relaxation abilities. It can help anxious and tensed people relax by putting them in a relaxed state of mind. The habit of alcohol drinking is something that has been incorporated into the minds by people who drink chronically due to their social upbringing. A variety of sources contribute to this habit such as the role of media and advertising, peer influence, and work related stress.

Unfortunately, many believe that hypnotherapy does not work directly on the causes, but instead help reduce the symptoms of alcohol cravings which lead to binge drinking. For example, we binge on alcohol because we want a form of escapism from the stress and frustrations of work/our boss/our spouses. The role of hypnotherapy is more to relaxing the mind of the subject rather than brainwashing the subject into being stress free.

We are also aware that many of the "triggers" of alcohol cravings and hence binging cannot be avoided. Therefore, hypnotherapy has a big role to play in this area. It can treat the symptoms of alcoholism such as alcohol withdrawal syndrome and relax the subject. Hypnotherapy coupled with counselling and the introduction of empowering thoughts and ideas can create a profound breakthrough in patients suffering from alcoholism. In conclusion, a good hypnotherapy regimen coupled with adequate counselling can help alcohol addicts treat symptoms of withdrawal and prevent alcohol cravings. Counsellors and practitioners have an important role to play in helping patients set realistic goals and help them to achieve them.