Hypnosis: A Waking, Focused State of Awareness

Hypnosis is defined as a conscious state of intensely focused attention, combined with reduced awareness of the external environment and increased openness to suggestion. It often occurs within a therapeutic context—hypnotherapy—where guided suggestions aim to address psychological or physical issues.

Mechanisms Behind Hypnosis

Neuroimaging research has revealed that hypnosis involves measurable changes in brain function. During a hypnotic state, there’s heightened activity in attention- and emotion-regulating regions like the anterior cingulate cortex, alongside reduced activity in the brain’s default mode network (linked to self-referential thought). This reconfiguration promotes a state of deep relaxation, focused attention, and increased suggestibility—all key to the hypnotic experience.

Psychological Theories of Hypnosis

There’s an ongoing debate between two main perspectives:

• Altered State Theories view hypnosis as a distinct mental state—sometimes even labelled a trance—with unique physiological features.

• Non-State Theories argue that hypnosis can be explained through normal psychological processes like expectation, social compliance, imagination, and relaxation—akin to role-playing or placebo effects.

It appears reality lies somewhere in between: while trance-like physiological changes occur, expectations and the therapeutic context also significantly shape outcomes.

Historical Context and Evolution

Hypnosis has evolved since the late 18th century, highlighted by figures like Franz Mesmer ("animal magnetism"), James Braid (who coined "hypnosis"), and later researchers such as Charcot, Bernheim, and Freud. Scientific investigation intensified in the mid-20th century, with tools like the Stanford Hypnotic Susceptibility Scale being developed.

Applications Across Domains

Hypnosis and hypnotherapy have been explored for various purposes:

• Medical and psychological treatment: reducing chronic and acute pain, managing anxiety, PTSD, Phobias, IBS, hot flashes, and sleep disorders.

• Behavioural change: aiding in quitting smoking, weight management, and phobia exposure via suggestion and mental imagery.

• Self-improvement and performance: used in sports, creativity, and focused enhancement. Hypnosis is most effective when used in conjunction with other evidence-based therapies (e.g., cognitive-behavioural therapy)—rather than as a standalone treatment.

Efficacy and Limitations

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses indicate that hypnosis can significantly improve outcomes for conditions like pain, IBS, and menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes. However, results vary based on:

• Individual hypnotisability: People differ in their ease of entering a hypnotic state.

• Beliefs and expectations: Positive expectations and trust in the therapist enhance the response. While generally safe when conducted by trained professionals, misuse—especially for memory recovery—can increase risks of anxiety or false memories.

Conclusion

Hypnosis is a scientifically validated form of focused attention and suggestibility accompanied by physiological changes in the brain. It evolved from early mesmerism to become a structured, measurable therapeutic tool. Its greatest strength lies in being used alongside other treatments to enhance well-being and alleviate symptoms. Effectiveness depends on individual factors like hypnotizability, expectations, and the quality of the therapeutic alliance. When administered responsibly, hypnosis offers a powerful adjunct for managing pain, anxiety, phobias, IBS, and menopausal symptoms, among others.