Research references
Summary
This collation of research seeks to provide readers with an initial understanding of the evidence behind the effectiveness of hypnotherapy.
The provided research is from a variety of academic journals, university researchers, and clinical trials. Research, including Random Controlled Trials (RCTs), shows the effectiveness of hypnotherapy in the treatment of:
- Major depressive disorder
- Anxiety
- Chronic pain
- Irritable bowl syndrome and functional abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Smoking cessation
- Phobias
- Headaches
- PTSD
- Pain related to rheumatoid arthritis
- Insomnia
One of the attached papers is a case study highlighting the pain reduction effects of eight 90-minute hypnotherapy sessions, in a patient with a spinal cord injury. Most of the outcome domains assessed (i.e., pain intensity, pain interference, sleep quality) showed clinically meaningful improvements that were maintained (or increased) at one-year follow-up.
Research
Systematic Review of Hypnotherapy for Sleep and Sleep Disturbance
The E2R (Emotion, regression, repair) method: A case study of this new pragmatic hypnotherapy technique
Age progression in hypnosis for pain and fatigue in individuals with disabilities
The Effectiveness of Mindful Hypnotherapy on Depression, Self-Compassion, and Psychological Inflexibility in Females with Major Depressive Disorder: A Single-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial
Hypnotherapy for irritable bowel syndrome: patient expectations and perceptions.
Hypnosis for refractory severe neuropathic pain: A case study
The Role of Integrative Clinical Hypnotherapy Interventions and their Place in Modern Medical and Psychological Treatment: A Review Study.
Long-Term Follow-up of Individual Therapist Delivered and Standardized Hypnotherapy Recordings in Pediatric Irritable Bowel Syndrome or Functional Abdominal Pain.
Skills or Pills: Randomized Trial Comparing Hypnotherapy to Medical Treatment in Children With Functional Nausea
Hypnotherapy and therapeutic suggestion: bridging the gap between evidence and utility.
Medical hypnotherapy; even in a tertiary care setting a promising treatment.
Meta-Analysis: Hypnotherapy and Its Effect on Quitting Smoking.
Efficacy of hypnotherapy compared to cognitive behavioural therapy for mild to moderate depression - Results of a randomized controlled rater-blind clinical trial
The use of hypnotherapy as treatment for functional stroke: A case series from a single center in the UK
Applicability of hypnosis to the treatment of Complex PTSD and dissociation.
FUNCTIONAL CHANGES IN BRAIN ACTIVITY AFTER HYPNOSIS: Neurobiological Mechanisms and Application to Patients with a Specific Phobia-Limitations and Future Directions.
A Meta-Analysis of Hypnotic Interventions for Depression Symptoms: High Hopes for Hypnosis?
Systematic Review of the Effectiveness of Hypnosis for the Management of Headache.
A Meta-Analysis of Hypnotherapeutic Techniques in the Treatment of PTSD Symptoms.
Pain Perception and Hypnosis: Findings From Recent Functional Neuroimaging Studies.
Hypnosis in the treatment of anxiety- and stress-related disorders
Hypnotically induced dissociation (HID) as a strategic intervention for enhancing OCD treatment
Hypnosis for nausea and vomiting in cancer chemotherapy: a systematic review of the research evidence.
The effectiveness of hypnosis for reducing procedure-related pain in children and adolescents: a comprehensive methodological review
The effect of hypnosis therapy on the symptoms and disease activity in Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Systematic Review of Hypnotherapy for Sleep and Sleep Disturbance
Journal: International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis. Date Jul 3, 2023
Nathan Wofford, Morgan Snyder, Chris E. Corlett, Gary R. Elki https://discovery.researcher.life/article/systematic-review-of-hypnotherapy-for-sleep-and-sleep-disturbance/62596f4b5da53176b236c4babd4b9d18
Abstract
Sleep disturbance can negatively affect physical and psychological health. Hypnotherapy may be effective for improving sleep with fewer side effects than other treatments. The purpose of this systematic review is to comprehensively identify studies and evidence regarding hypnotherapy for sleep disturbances. Four databases were searched to identify studies examining the use of hypnotherapy for sleep in adult populations. The search yielded 416 articles, of which 44 were included. Qualitative data analysis revealed that 47.7% of the studies showed positive results regarding the impact of hypnotherapy for sleep, 22.7% showed mixed results, and 29.5% showed no impact. A subset of 11 studies that set sleep disturbance as an inclusion criterion and included suggestions for sleep were examined separately and had more favourable results, such that 54.5% showed positive results, 36.4% showed mixed results, and 9.1% showed no impact results. Hypnotherapy appears to be a promising treatment for sleep disturbance. Future studies should report effect sizes, adverse events, and hypnotisability and include sleep-specific suggestions, standardized measures, and descriptions of hypnotherapy intervention procedures.
The E2R (Emotion, regression, repair) method: A case study of this new pragmatic hypnotherapy technique
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice; Feb 1, 2023
Anne-Claude Mener, Eric Mener
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36423359/#:~:text=Abstract,since%202016%20in%20this%20method
Abstract
The E2R (Emotion, Regression, Repair) method is a pragmatic and innovative technique for treating psychological complaints. It is the result of the professional experience of two caregivers who have been training medical and paramedical colleagues since 2016 in this method. There is always an Emotion in the symptom that a patient presents. During the trance, the hypnotherapist uses it as a thread for age Regressions, often up to 3 years old. The patient can then identify a situation that triggered an identical experience. They self-reorganise their emotional experience according to their needs, accompanied step by step by the therapist who follows the protocol of the repair loop. This new emotional reality experienced in trance replaces the factual reality of the previous trauma and reduces or even eliminates the present complaint through an adapted Repair. The E2R method works without taking a prior hypnotisability test. The need for change and the desire to engage in hypnotherapy are the only predispositions required, regardless of the complaint. A case study of a patient with chronic severe insomnia who received four sessions of hypnotherapy using the E2R protocol illustrates this approach and its benefits.
Age progression in hypnosis for pain and fatigue in individuals with disabilities
The American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35435817/
M Elena Mendoza 1, Prasert Sakulsriprasert 2, Mark P Jensen 1
PMID: 35435817 DOI: 10.1080/00029157.2022.2060063
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to describe in detail a specific age progression approach that we use in our clinical practice and clinical trials in interventions including hypnosis for chronic pain and fatigue in individuals with disabilities. Moreover, we present preliminary evidence regarding the effects of the hypnosis sessions that use age progression suggestions compared to hypnosis sessions that provide different suggestions, as well as to sessions that did not include hypnotic procedures. Findings indicate that age progression suggestions for pain management with individuals participating in hypnosis treatment resulted in substantial immediate reductions in pain intensity, which were greater than pain reductions associated with treatments sessions providing pain education or cognitive therapy. In addition, age progression sessions provided to individuals receiving online hypnosis treatment for fatigue resulted in immediate large reductions in fatigue severity. Although the design of these two studies does not allow to report specific or long-term effects of the age progression techniques, findings indicate that including age progression suggestions to hypnosis protocols for pain and fatigue management is effective for reducing the immediate level of both symptoms. The development and continued evaluation of hypnotic interventions that increase or restore hope in, and optimism, for the future has the potential for enhancing the psychosocial well-being and quality of life of individuals with pain and fatigue.
The Effectiveness of Mindful Hypnotherapy on Depression, Self-Compassion, and Psychological Inflexibility in Females with Major Depressive Disorder: A Single-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial
The International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis
Authors: Khazraee 1 ; Bakhtiari 1 ; Kianimoghadam 1 ; Ghorbanikhah 2 ;
Source: International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, Volume 71, Number 1, 2 January 2023, pp. 63-78(16)
Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/00207144.2022.2160257
Abstract
The effectiveness of the novel intervention mindful hypnotherapy on depression, self-compassion, and psychological inflexibility in females with major depressive disorder was examined in a randomized, clinical trial. Thirty-four participants were randomly allocated into mindful hypnotherapy and waitlist control groups. The intervention group was treated in 8 face-to-face, 60-minute weekly therapy sessions along with mindful hypnosis audio tapes to be used daily. The results of analysis of covariance indicated that there were significant differences between the mindful hypnotherapy and waitlist control groups after intervention and at 2-month follow-up (p < .001). The between-subject test of repeated measures ANOVAs also indicated a clinically significant difference between groups across time (baseline, postintervention, and 2-month follow-up) in depression, F = 53.86, p < .001, effect size = .65, and in self-compassion, F = 33.18, p < .001, effect size = .53, as well as psychological inflexibility, F = 26.84, p < .001, effect size = .48. In conclusion, this study indicates that mindful hypnotherapy is an effective intervention for treating depression as well as reducing psychological inflexibility and improving self-compassion for patients with major depressive disorder.
Case Study: Cognitive Restructuring Hypnosis for Chronic Pain in a Quadriplegic Patient
The American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31017549/
Rocío de la Vega 1, M Elena Mendoza 2, Joy F Chan 2, Mark P Jensen 2
PMID: 31017549 DOI: 10.1080/00029157.2018.1537973
Abstract
This case study reports on a 28-year-old male with spinal cord injury (SCI), quadriplegia, and chronic pain with neuropathic characteristics. The treatment had to be adapted to address the patient's needs, as he was on a respirator and paralyzed from the chin down. The intervention consisted of eight 90-minute sessions. The first four sessions were based on a standardized hypnotic cognitive therapy protocol developed for a randomized controlled trial (RCT). The sessions included training in cognitive restructuring skills and a hypnosis session with suggestions that was audio recorded. Instructions to practice at home, both with the recording and by using self-hypnosis, were provided as well. Most of the outcome domains assessed (i.e., pain intensity, pain interference, sleep quality) showed clinically meaningful improvements that were maintained (or increased) at one-year follow-up. The patient reported that he was still using self-hypnosis at one-year follow-up. His subjective impression of change was positive and he did not report any negative side effects. Results show that the hypnotic cognitive therapy protocol used is a promising intervention that can benefit individuals with SCI presenting with complex symptomatology. Such therapy helps patients by teaching them effective coping strategies that they can use on their own to manage pain and its effects. In addition, it is important to note that this therapy provided benefits to someone who had not experienced any benefits from numerous medications he had tried before treatment. Therefore, the findings support continued efforts to make this treatment more accessible to patients who could benefit from this approach.
Hypnotherapy for irritable bowel syndrome: patient expectations and perceptions
Therapeutic advances in Gastroenterology
First published online February 15, 2022
Anne-Sophie Donnet, Syed Shariq Hasan, and Peter J. Whorwell https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5220-8474
https://doi.org/10.1177/17562848221074208
Abstract
Hypnotherapy for irritable bowel syndrome: patient expectations and perceptions Anne-Sophie Donnet, Syed Shariq Hasan and Peter J. Whorwell Abstract Introduction: Numerous studies have shown that hypnotherapy (HT) is effective in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) using traditional symptom severity end points. However, there is now interest in capturing the patient’s perception of their illness and treatment because what patients expect from their treatment may differ from that of their healthcare provider. Objective: To record patient perceptions and expectations of hypnotherapy as well as their symptom response. Methods: 150 consecutive IBS patients (116 females, 34 males, aged 16–81 years) receiving hypnotherapy completed questionnaires recording IBS symptom severity, quality of life, noncolonic symptoms, anxiety and depression levels before and after treatment. Their expectations and perceptions of HT were also recorded, including a free text reflection. Results: 121 patients (81%) responded to treatment consistent with our previous experience. Symptom severity scores, noncolonic symptoms, quality of life, anxiety and depression significantly all improved after HT (p < 0.001). Expectancy of an improvement with hypnotherapy was greater in those who did not respond to treatment (63%) than those who did (57%, p < 0.001). Scepticism and apprehension were common before treatment and replaced with enthusiasm afterwards. Free text responses after treatment were overwhelmingly positive. Patients also reported a variety of other benefits and even 20 of 29 symptom nonresponders (70%) still considered treatment worthwhile.
Conclusion: Although initially perceived negatively, hypnotherapy improved symptoms and resulted in a wide range of additional benefits. Expectation did not necessarily influence outcome. Recording IBS symptoms alone does not fully capture the patient’s experience of treatment and needs to be considered in future research.
Hypnosis for refractory severe neuropathic pain: A case study
The American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32744484/
doi: 10.1080/00029157.2020.1742087. 2020 Jul;63(1):28-35.
Melissa L McKittrick 1, Jenna L Walters 1, Michael T M Finn 1, Lindsey C McKernan 1
PMID: 32744484 DOI: 10.1080/00029157.2020.1742087
Abstract
Chronic pain not only has the greatest negative effect on quality of life compared with other chronic health problems but also contributes to the greatest disability worldwide. Management of chronic neuropathic pain is particularly challenging given its association with other pain processes, the fact that less than half of patients respond to a single pain medication, and the lack of evidence regarding combination therapy (i.e. a treatment regimen that combines several scheduled pain medications) safety and efficacy. Given these challenges, there is a growing interest in the application of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies such as yoga, acupuncture, and hypnosis. We present the case of a 67-year-old male with severe diabetic neuropathy refractory to first, second, and third-line treatments. His disabling pain precipitated premature retirement, contributing to severe depression with suicidality requiring hospitalization. Ultimately, he experienced relief through an integrative health regimen, and he identified hypnosis as the most effective therapy for his pain. Through individual and group sessions, recordings, and daily self-hypnosis, he improved both his chronic pain symptomatology and quality of life, simultaneously decreasing opioid use. Simulation modeling analysis of his pain ratings over time showed that they reliably decreased after engaging in hypnosis, r = -.33, p =.001. A growing body of research suggests that hypnosis is beneficial as part of an integrative treatment approach to chronic pain and enhances the efficacy of other therapies. Our medically challenging case study supports that hypnosis may serve as a viable and durable treatment for chronic neuropathic pain.
The Role of Integrative Clinical Hypnotherapy Interventions and their Place in Modern Medical and Psychological Treatment:
Review Study
Research Journal of Pharmacy and Technology
Sheila Menon1, Vidya Bhagat2 :London College of Clinical Hypnosis Asia, LCCH Asia, 807 Block B Phileo Damansara1, Jalan Damansara, Section 16/11 Petaling Jaya Selangor 46350 Malaysia. 2A.J. Institute of Hospital Management, Mangalore Rajeev Gandhi University, Mangalore 2, India. Corresponding Author E-mail: menonsheila@yahoo.com
Introduction: Integrative clinical hypnotherapy is an intervention that utilises naturally occurring trance states as the basis for a therapeutic approach that helps patients or clients to overcome their problems in a caring and compassionate way. Purpose: The aim of the current study is to explore the scientific evidence supporting the increased use of compassion and hypnotherapy as an intervention for psychophysiology-related problems.
Conclusion: The study brings new insights supporting the scientific evidence of a compassionate and integrative approach to clinical hypnotherapy which offers a newer science-based understanding of the way hypnosis affects the brain and thought processes. The study puts forward models for improved treatment outcomes that address the emotional or cognitive distress which is implacable in clinical intervention.
Long-Term Follow-up of Individual Therapist Delivered and Standardized Hypnotherapy Recordings in Pediatric Irritable Bowel Syndrome or Functional Abdominal Pain.
Journal of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35759537/ Journal of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition : 2022 Jul 1;75(1):24-29.
doi: 10.1097/MPG.0000000000003478. Epub 2022 May 4Robyn Rexwinkel, MSc,* Jeske F.M. Bovendeert, MD,* Juliette M.T.M. Rutten, MD, PhD,* Carla Frankenhuis, BSc,* Marc A. Benninga, MD, PhD,* and Arine M. Vlieger, MD, PhD†
Objectives:
We previously showed that standardized home-based gut-directed hypnosis exercises with compact disc (CD) is non-inferior to individual hypnotherapy (iHT) by a therapist in the treatment of children with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional abdominal pain (syndrome) (FAP(S)). Aim of this follow-up study was to investigate the long-term effects of standardized-hypnosis-recordings at home in comparison to iHT.
Results:
227 out of 250 (91%) participants completed this study. After a median duration of 6 years follow-up (5.8-6.2), 80.0% in the CD group vs 86.6% in the iHT group reported AR of their abdominal complaints (P=.22). Compared to the 1-year follow-up, AR percentages were stable. Treatment success was seen in 67.6% in the CD group vs 71.3% in the iHT group (P=.66). Anxiety and depression scores, somatization, pain beliefs, health care utilization and school/work absenteeism also improved significantly in both study groups compared with baseline. No differences were found in QOL-scores.
Conclusions:
Both home-based treatment with standardized-hypnosis-recordings and iHT given by a therapist show persisting positive results in more than 80% of children with IBS and FAP(S) after 6 years of follow-up. These results support the rationale for implementation of this easy-to-use, widely available and cost-effective home-treatment in daily practice.
Skills or Pills: Randomized Trial Comparing Hypnotherapy to Medical Treatment in Children With Functional Nausea
Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology
https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/clinical-gastroenterology-and-hepatology August 2022 P 1847-1856 e.6
Background & Aims
The potential effectiveness of gut-directed hypnotherapy (HT) is unknown for pediatric chronic nausea. This randomized controlled trial compared HT with standard medical treatment (SMT).
Methods
One hundred children (ages, 8–18 y) with chronic nausea and fulfilling functional nausea (FN) or functional dyspepsia (FD) criteria were allocated randomly (1:1) to HT or SMT, with a 3-month intervention period. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, at the halfway point, after treatment, and at the 6- and 12-month follow-up evaluation. Children scored nausea symptoms in a 7-day diary. The primary outcome was treatment success, defined as a reduction in nausea of 50% or more, at the 12-month follow-up evaluation. Secondary outcomes included adequate relief of nausea.
Results
After treatment and at the 6-month follow-up evaluation, there was a trend toward higher treatment success in the HT group compared with the SMT group (45% vs 26%, P = .052; and 57% vs 40%, P = .099, respectively). At 12 months, treatment success was similar in both groups (60% in the HT group and 55% in the SMT group; P = .667). In the FN group, significantly higher success rates were found for HT, but no differences were found in patients with FD. Adequate relief was significantly higher in the HT group than in the SMT group at the 6-month follow-up evaluation (children: 81% vs 55%, P = .014; parents: 79% vs 53%; P = .016), but not at the 12-month follow-up evaluation.
Conclusions
HT and SMT were effective in reducing nausea symptoms in children with FN and FD. In children with FN, HT was more effective than SMT during and after the first 6 months of treatment. Therefore, HT and SMT, applied separately or in combination, should be offered to children with FN as a treatment option (Clinical trials registration number: NTR5814).
Hypnotherapy and therapeutic suggestion: bridging the gap between evidence and utility
BJPsych Advances
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 03 October 2022
https://doi.org/10.1192/bja.2022.68
Summary
The use of hypnotherapy in psychiatry has been controversial. However, evidence presented by Chan and colleagues shows that it is beneficial to the promotion of good mental health and well-being, specifically being applicable in the management of mental disorders. But what does this mean for practice? This commentary looks at what we agree and disagree with, what we opine is missing from the article and what now needs to happen. Patients should be able to access hypnotherapy or hypnosis routinely on the National Health Service. Since it works, who may it work for and how may we make this available to those who could benefit from it?
Medical hypnotherapy; even in a tertiary care setting a promising treatment.
International Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics
https://hypnosewerk.nl/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/artikel-hypnose.pdf International Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics 2022 May;9(5):418-424
Bastek VB et al. Vanessa B. Bastek, Elroly M. Groeneveld, Michel J. van Vliet*
Background: Medical hypnotherapy has shown to be an effective treatment in specified conditions such as abdominal pain or headache. Since 2016 the Beatrix children’s hospital, a tertiary care center, offers medical hypnotherapy for a high variety of complex symptom disorders in pediatric patients.
Methods: This retrospective COHORT study analyzed the characteristics of pediatric patients treated with medical hypnotherapy in a tertiary care center as well as the effectiveness of the treatment.
Results: 214 patients with complex chronic symptoms were treated with medical hypnotherapy. 48% Percent of all patients referred had more than one symptom and 59% of them had had their symptoms for over a year. An overall improvement of symptoms was achieved in 76% of all patients.
Conclusions: Medical hypnotherapy seems an effective treatment for patients with multiple chronic and complex symptoms even in a tertiary clinical setting.
Meta-Analysis: Hypnotherapy and Its Effect on Quitting Smoking
Journal of Health Promotion and Behavior
https://www.thejhpb.com/index.php/thejhpb/article/download/374/240
Journal of Health Promotion and Behavior (2022), 07(04): 273-283
Meta-Analysise-ISSN: 2549-1172273
Jihan Nafisah Fauziyyah 1), Hanung Prasetya 2), Bhisma Murti1)
Background: Smoking is still a major health problem, about 23% of the world's population smokes. Indonesia is in the 3rd rank with the number of active smokers worldwide and more than 97 million Indonesians are exposed to cigarette smoke. Hypnotherapy can play a role in controlling smoking habits with a psychological health approach that is used to change human behaviour and habits. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of hypnotherapy on the success of smoking cessation in active smokers based on the results of previous similar studies.
Subjects and Method: This study was a meta-analysis with the following PICO, Population: active adult smokers. Intervention: hypnotherapy. Comparison: no hypnotherapy. Result: decreased pain. The articles used in this study were obtained from three databases, namely Google Scholar, Pubmed, and Science Direct. The keywords to search for articles are “hypnotherapy” OR “hypnosis” AND tobacco OR smoke OR smoked OR smoker AND “smoking cessation”. The articles included are English and Indonesian full text with a randomized control trial study design from 2008-2022. Article selection is done by using PRISMA flow diagram. Articles were analyzed using the Review Manager 5.3 application.
Results: A total of 9 Randomized Controlled Trial studies from the continents of Europe, America, Asia and Africa were selected for systematic review and meta-analysis. It was found that hypnotherapy can increase the success of smoking cessation and is statistically significant (SMD= 1.32; CI 95% = 0.53 to 2.12; p=0.001).
Conclusion: Hypnotherapy increases the success of smoking cessation in active adult smokers.
Review: Neural functional correlates of hypnosis and hypnoanalgesia: role of the cingulate cortex
The American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00029157.2021.1895709
Antonio Del Casale Stefano Ferracuti Barbara Adriani, Francesco Novelli, Teodolinda Zoppi, Paride Bargagna and Maurizio Pompili
American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis. Volume 64, 2021 Issue 1 pages 53-61. Published online: 08 Nov 2021
ABSTRACT
Hypnosis is a hetero-induced or self-induced altered state of consciousness that
involves focused attention and reduced peripheral awareness. It is determined by
response to suggestions and can be used in the management of various clinical
conditions. Nowadays there is growing attention to the neurobiological correlates of hypnosis because of its future clinical applications. The greater attention is due to the wide range of applications that might stem from its knowledge. Functional
neuroimaging studies show that hypnosis a ects attention by modulating the
activation of the anterior cingulate cortex and other brain areas, modifying the
conflict monitoring and cognitive control. During hypnoanalgesia, several changes in
brain functions occur in all the areas of the pain network, and other brain areas.
Among these, the anterior cingulate cortex is signi cantly involved in modulating
the activity of pain circuits under hypnosis, both in the a ective, sensory-cognitive, and behavioral aspects. The study of the functionality of the cingulate cortices, mainly the anterior and medial portions, appears to be crucial for better understanding the hypnotic phenomena, related to both the neurocognitive and somatosensory aspects.
KEYWORDS: Cingulate cortex / functional neuroimaging / hypnosis / hypnotic analgesia / neurocognition
Efficacy of hypnotherapy compared to cognitive behavioural therapy for mild to moderate depression - Results of a randomized controlled rater-blind clinical trial Journal of Affective Disorder
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33725616/
2021 May 1;286:166-173. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.02.069. Epub 2021 Mar 5.
Author links open overlay
panelKristina Fuhr 1, Christoph Meisner 2, Angela Broch 1, Barbara Cyrny 1, Juliane Hinkel 1, Joana Jaberg 1, Monika Petrasch 1, Cornelie Schweizer 1, Anette Stiegler 1, Christina Zeep 1, Anil Batra 1
Background: Methodologically well-designed RCTs concerning the efficacy of Hypnotherapy in the treatment of Major Depression are lacking. The aim of this study was to determine whether Hypnotherapy (HT) is not inferior to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), the gold-standard psychotherapy, in the percentage reduction of depressive symptoms, assessed in mild to moderate Major Depression (MD).
Results: The difference in the mean percentage symptom reduction between HT and CBT was 2.8 (95% CI=-9.85 to 15.44) in the Intention-to-treat sample and 4.0 (95% CI=-9.27 to 17.27) in the Per Protocol sample (N=134). Concerning the pre-specified non-inferiority margin of -16.4, both results confirm the non-inferiority of HT to CBT. The results for the follow-ups six and twelve months after the end of the treatment support the primary results.
Limitations: For ethical reasons the trial did not include a control group without treatment; therefore we can only indirectly conclude that both treatment conditions are effective.
Conclusion: This is the first study to demonstrate that HT was not inferior to CBT in MD, while employing rigorous methodological standards.
The use of hypnotherapy as treatment for functional stroke: A case series from a single center in the UK
International Journal of Stroke
Epub 2021 Feb 27. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33527884/
Ranjan Sanyal 1, Marko Raseta 2, Indira Natarajan 1, Christine Roffe 1 3
PMID: 33527884 PMCID: PMC8739735 DOI: 10.1177/1747493021995590
Background: Functional neurological disorder is defined by symptoms not explained by the current model of disease and its pathophysiology. It is found in 8.4% of patients presenting as acute stroke. Treatment is difficult and recurrence rates are high. We introduced hypnotherapy as a therapeutic option in addition to standard stroke unit care.
Results: Sixty-eight patients (mean age 36.4 years, 52 (76%) females, mean baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke 5.0 (range 1-9)) were included. Two patients (3%) could not be hypnotized. Fifty-eight 58 (85%) responded, 47 (81%) required one treatment session, while 19% needed up to three sessions for symptomatic improvement. No adverse events were observed. Disability (modified Rankin Scale) reduced from a mean of 2.3 to 0.5 resulting in an average cost saving of £1,658 per patient. Most (n = 50, 86%) remained well without recurrence at six-month follow-up.
Conclusions: In this case series, hypnotherapy was associated with rapid and sustained recovery of symptoms. A prospective randomized controlled study is required to confirm the findings and establish generalizability of the results
Applicability of hypnosis to the treatment of Complex PTSD and dissociation
American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33118880/
Authors: Gold 1 ; Quiñones 2 ;
Source: American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, Volume 63, Number 2, 10 January 2021, pp. 78-94(17)
Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/00029157.2020.1789546
Abstract
In considering the applicability of hypnosis to treating Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) we examine the relationship between trauma, hypnosis, and dissociation, the latter being a common response to traumatization that is particularly salient in C-PTSD. We then provide an overview of the nature of C-PTSD, which research is beginning to demonstrate is considerably more prevalent than the more circumscribed PTSD syndrome depicted in the DSM. Building on this foundation, we discuss the reasons why hypnotically structured treatment is particularly well suited for C-PTSD, explaining how each of the major aspects of this syndrome can be addressed within a hypnotic framework.
Effects of Hypnotherapy on Weight Loss and thus on Serum Leptin, Adiponectin, and Irisin Levels in Obese Patients
Journal of alternative and complimentary medicine
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32716207
Journal of alternative and complimentary medicine 2020 Nov;26(11):1047-1054.
DOI: 10.1089/acm.2020.0104. Epub 2020 Jul 21. PMID: 32716207
Objective: This study aimed to investigate effects of hypnotherapy on weight loss and thus on leptin, adiponectin (ADP), and irisin levels in obese patients who presented to the psychiatry outpatient clinic to participate in hypnotherapy sessions to develop a healthy and balanced diet.
Methods: The study sample included 32 individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of ≥30 and who completed the 10-week hypnotherapy. First, the Personal Information Form was handed out to the participants and then each participant's weight (in the morning on an empty stomach) and height were measured and BMI was determined. Five-milliliter blood samples were drawn before the first session, and then irisin, leptin, and ADP levels were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Then, they participated in hypnotherapy sessions once a week for 10 weeks. At the end of the 10-week hypnotherapy, 5 mL of blood was taken again and the aforementioned biochemical analyses were performed. BMIs were measured again.
Results: The mean BMI values of the patients were 33.43 ± 5.28 and 31.45 ± 4.98 at the beginning and end of the hypnotherapy sessions, respectively. Serum leptin, ADP, and irisin levels, which were 9.48 ± 5.48, 6.73 ± 3.27, and 1.43 ± 1.14, respectively, at the beginning of the hypnotherapy sessions, were 6.47 ± 2.69, 7.68 ± 3.34, and 1.53 ± 1.21, respectively, at the end of the hypnotherapy sessions. The results showed that BMI and serum leptin levels decreased significantly after the hypnotherapy sessions, whereas serum ADP and irisin levels increased significantly.
Conclusions: This study indicates that hypnotherapy in obesity treatment leads to weight loss in obese patients and thus to considerable changes in leptin, ADP, and irisin levels. Hypnotherapy is easy to apply, cheap, and effective; has no potential for side effects; and can be applied both alone and in combination with other treatments. However, to confirm its effects, further studies should be conducted on this issue.
FUNCTIONAL CHANGES IN BRAIN ACTIVITY AFTER HYPNOSIS: Neurobiological Mechanisms and Application to Patients with a Specific Phobia-Limitations and Future Directions
International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31526269/
International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis 2019 Oct-Dec;67(4):449-474.
Ulrike Halsband 1, Thomas Gerhard Wolf 2 3PMID: 31526269 DOI: 10.1080/00207144.2019.1650551
Abstract
Studies of brain-plasticity changes in hypnosis using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), positron-emission-tomography (PET) and electroencephalography (EEG) were reviewed. The authors found evidence in those studies that hypnosis is a powerful and successful method for inhibiting the reaction of the fear circuitry structures. Limitations of the studies were critically discussed, and implications for future research were made. The authors are currently using a portable fNIRS apparatus to integrate the scanning device into real life situations in medical practice. Their aim is to disentangle the neuronal mechanisms and physiological correlates in patients with severe fear of medical treatments when directly confronted with anxiety-provoking stimuli and to assess the effects of a brief hypnosis. Drawing on evidence from several technological modalities, neuroimaging and physiological studies pave the road to a better scientific understanding of neural mechanisms of hypnosis.
A Meta-Analysis of Hypnotic Interventions for Depression Symptoms: High Hopes for Hypnosis?
American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34874235/ Authors: Milling; Valentine; McCarley; LoStimolo
Source: American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, Volume 61, Number 3, 21 December 2018, pp. 227-243(17)
Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/00029157.2018.1489777
Affiliations: University of Hartford, Publication date: 21 December 2018
Abstract: This meta-analysis quantifies the effectiveness of hypnosis for treating the symptoms of depression. To be included in the meta-analysis, studies were required to use a between-subjects or mixed-model design in which a hypnotic intervention for depression was compared with a control condition in reducing depression symptoms. Of 197 records screened, 10 studies incorporating 13 trials of hypnosis met the inclusion criteria. The mean weighted effect size for 13 trials of hypnosis at the end of active treatment was 0.71 (p ≤ .001), indicating the average participant receiving hypnosis showed more improvement than about 76% of control participants. The mean weighted effect size for four trials of hypnosis at the longest follow-up was 0.52 (p ≤ .01), indicating the average participant treated with hypnosis showed more improvement than about 51% of control participants. These effect sizes are comparable to those associated with well-known psychological interventions for depression (e.g., Beck’s cognitive therapy, interpersonal therapy) and suggest hypnosis is a very effective way of alleviating the symptoms of depression. Clinicians may wish to give serious consideration to hypnosis as a treatment option when working with clients and patients who are depressed.
Systematic Review of the Effectiveness of Hypnosis for the Management of Headache
International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/
Pages 343-352 | Received 01 Mar 2017, Published online: 28 Aug 2018
Abstract: Migraine is a complex neurological condition that causes a range of symptoms, the most common of which is a severe headache. The aim of this systematic review of the literature is to determine the efficacy of hypnosis in the treatment of migraine. A systematic search of 4 scientific databases was conducted using the primary search terms migraine, headache, hypnosis, and hypnotherapy. A total of 8 studies were identified that examined hypnotic techniques either alone or in combination with other nonpharmaceutical techniques, such as visual imagery, relaxation, and pain-displacement techniques. This study demonstrates that hypnotherapy and relaxation techniques are effective in reducing short- and long-term headache activity in migraine sufferers.
A Meta-Analysis of Hypnotherapeutic Techniques in the Treatment of PTSD Symptoms
Journal of Traumatic Stress
https://doi.org/10.1002/jts.22077
Siobhan K O'Toole 1, Shelby L Solomon 1, Stephen A Bergdahl 1
2016 Feb;29(1):97-100. doi: 10.1002/jts.22077. Epub 2016 Feb 8
PMID: 26855228 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22077
Abstract
The efficacy of hypnotherapeutic techniques as treatment for symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was explored through meta-analytic methods. Studies were selected through a search of 29 databases. Altogether, 81 studies discussing hypnotherapy and PTSD were reviewed for inclusion criteria. The outcomes of 6 studies representing 391 participants were analyzed using meta-analysis. Evaluation of effect sizes related to avoidance and intrusion, in addition to overall PTSD symptoms after hypnotherapy treatment, revealed that all studies showed that hypnotherapy had a positive effect on PTSD symptoms. The overall Cohen's d was large (-1.18) and statistically significant (p < .001). Effect sizes varied based on study quality; however, they were large and statistically significant. Using the classic fail-safe N to assess for publication bias, it was determined it would take 290 nonsignificant studies to nullify these findings.
Pain Perception and Hypnosis: Findings From Recent Functional Neuroimaging Studies
International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25719519/
2727 total citations on Dimensions.
Authors: Del Casale; Ferracuti; Rapinesi; Serata; Caltagirone; Savoja; Piacentino; Callovini; Manfredi; Sani; Kotzalidis; Girardi
Source: International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, Volume 63, Number 2, 3 April 2015, pp. 144-170(27) Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/00207144.2015.1002371
Abstract: Hypnosis modulates pain perception and tolerance by affecting cortical and subcortical activity in brain regions involved in these processes. By reviewing functional neuroimaging studies focusing on pain perception under hypnosis, the authors aimed to identify brain activation-deactivation patterns occurring in hypnosis-modulated pain conditions.
Conclusion: Different changes in brain functionality occurred throughout all components of the pain network and other brain areas. The anterior cingulate cortex appears to be central in modulating pain circuitry activity under hypnosis. Most studies also showed that the neural functions of the prefrontal, insular, and somatosensory cortices are consistently modified during hypnosis-modulated pain conditions. Functional neuroimaging studies support the clinical use of hypnosis in the management of pain conditions.
Hypnosis in the treatment of anxiety- and stress-related disorders
Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics
Pages 263-273 | Published online: 09 Jan 2014 Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics Journal
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/41411005
Abstract
Self-hypnosis training represents a rapid, cost-effective, nonaddictive and safe alternative to medication for the treatment of anxiety-related conditions. Here we provide a review of the experimental literature on the use of self-hypnosis in the treatment of anxiety and stress-related disorders, including anxiety associated with cancer, surgery, burns and medical/dental procedures. An overview of research is also provided with regard to self-hypnotic treatment of anxiety-related disorders, such as tension headaches, migraines and irritable bowel syndrome. The tremendous volume of research provides compelling evidence that hypnosis is an efficacious treatment for state anxiety (e.g., prior to tests, surgery and medical procedures) and anxiety-related disorders, such as headaches and irritable bowel syndrome. Although six studies demonstrate changes in trait anxiety, this review recommends that further randomized controlled outcome studies are needed on the hypnotic treatment of generalized anxiety disorder and in documenting changes in trait anxiety. Recommendations are made for selecting clinical referral sources.
Hypnotically induced dissociation (HID) as a strategic intervention for enhancing OCD treatment
The American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21404953/
Joseph Meyerson 1, Andres Konichezky PMID: 21404953
DOI: 10.1080/00029157.2011.10401755
Abstract
To date, cognitive behavioral therapy has been designated the most efficient evidence-based psychotherapeutic approach for OCD management. This is mainly due to its ability to effectively address the constitutional and developmentally acquired emotional and cognitive deficiencies of OCD, which express themselves through behavioral compulsions and intrusive thoughts. Yet some reports indicate that from 30 to 60 percent of OCD patients are not responsive to psychotherapeutic interventions. As a consequence, broader therapeutic models have been considered. These models encompass multifactorial etiologies of OCD and take intrapsychic stressogenic factors into consideration as well. Some of these models have adopted hypnotherapeutic approaches. In the present article, we introduce a therapeutic tool that utilizes hypnotically induced dissociation (HID) to identify and address the intrapsychic etiology of OCD. The result is a therapeutic intervention that complements existing OCD treatment strategies. Clinical cases are presented to illustrate implementation of the approach.
Hypnosis for nausea and vomiting in cancer chemotherapy: a systematic review of the research evidence
European Journal of Cancer Care
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17760926/
J. RICHARDSON bsc(hons), phd, rn, cpsychol, pgce, rnt, reader in nursing and health studies, J.E. SMITH ba(hons), msc, former research assistant.
First published: 12 December 2006 https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2354.2006.00736.xCitations: 105
Abstract: Cochrane Library was conducted. Specialist complementary and alternative medicine databases were searched and efforts were made to identify unpublished and ongoing research. Citations were included from the databases’ inception to March 2005. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were appraised and meta-analysis undertaken. Clinical commentaries were obtained. Six RCTs evaluating the effectiveness of hypnosis in CINV were found. In five of these studies the participants were children. Studies report positive results including statistically significant reductions in anticipatory and CINV. Meta-analysis revealed a large effect size of hypnotic treatment when compared with treatment as usual, and the effect was at least as large as that of cognitive–behavioural therapy. Meta-analysis has demonstrated that hypnosis could be a clinically valuable intervention for anticipatory and CINV in children with cancer. Further research into the effectiveness, acceptance and feasibility of hypnosis in CINV, particularly in adults, is suggested. Future studies should assess suggestibility and provide full details of the hypnotic intervention.
The effectiveness of hypnosis for reducing procedure-related pain in children and adolescents: a comprehensive methodological review
Journal of Behavioral Medicine
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10865-009-9207-6
Michelle C. Accardi & Leonard S. Milling : Journal of Behavioral Medicine volume 32, pages328–339 (2009)
Abstract
A comprehensive, methodologically informed review of studies of the effectiveness of hypnosis for reducing procedure-related pain in children and adolescents is provided. To be included in the review, studies were required to use a between-subjects or mixed model design in which hypnosis was compared with a control condition or an alternative intervention in reducing the procedure-related pain of patients younger than age 19. An exhaustive search identified 13 studies satisfying these criteria. Hypnosis was consistently found to be more effective than control conditions in alleviating discomfort associated with bone marrow aspirations, lumbar punctures, voiding cysto-urethograms, the Nuss procedure, and post-surgical pain. Furthermore, hypnosis was as at least as effective as distraction. Three hypnotic interventions met criteria as a possibly efficacious empirically supported therapy for reducing post-surgical or lumbar puncture pain. Several other hypnotic interventions would have achieved the status of a possibly efficacious therapy had studies used a treatment manual.
The effect of hypnosis therapy on the symptoms and disease activity in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Journal of Psychology & Health
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22175264/
2000 Nov;14(6):1089-104. Journal of Psychology and Healh
DOI: 10.1080/08870440008407369.
J R Horton-Hausknecht 1, U Mitzdorf, D Melchart
DOI: 10.1080/08870440008407369
Abstract
Abstract The present study aimed to assess the effectiveness of clinical hypnosis on the symptoms and disease activity of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). Sixty six RA patients participated in a controlled group design. Twenty six patients learnt the hypnosis intervention, 20 patients were in a relaxation control group and 20 patients were in a waiting-list control group. During hypnosis, patients developed individual visual imagery aimed at reducing the autoimmune activity underlying the RA and at reducing the symptoms of joint pain, swelling and stiffness. Subjective assessments of symptom severity and body and joint function, using standardised questionnaires and visual analogue scales, were obtained. Objective measures of disease activity via multiple blood samples during the therapy period and at the two follow-ups were also taken. These measurements were of erythrocyte sedimentation rate. C-reactive protein, haemoglobin and leukocyte total numbers. Results indicate that the hypnosis therapy produced more significant improvements in both the subjective and objective measurements above relaxation and medication. Improvements were also found to be of clinical significance and became even more significant when patients practised the hypnosis regularly during the follow-up periods.