Using Hypnosis to Stop Smoking

Hypnosis Behavior Modification

Hypnosis behavior modification is not an unfounded idea, it is thought that hypnosis is a state of mind in which it is more acceptable to suggestion, ultra-alert, and relaxed. All of these factors would seem to fit for an effective behavior modification therapy, such as hypnosis to stop smoking. There is no evidence from the scientific community to prove that hypnosis to stop smoking is any more than a placebo effect.

Many people claim that the therapy has worked for them, and that they have quit smoking. In 2004 there was a program on weight loss on a popular news program, one of the subjects of their weight loss experiment used hypnosis to loose weight, he was so successful that his wife decided to try using hypnosis to quit smoking, and it worked for her even after a year.

It is important for people who are using stop smoking hypnosis techniques to keep in mind that there is on instant or quick fix to quit smoking. All efforts to quit smoking must be based in a strong desire and motivation to quit; also their will power will be tested regardless of which method to quit they choose to use.

The Therapy Session

Hypnotism to quit smoking is supposed to help people quit by using the power of suggestion while the person is under hypnosis; for example a hypnotist may tell a person to associate smoking cigarettes with an extremely bad smell and the thoughts of smoking with a positive anti smoking message, with a reinforcement queue such as a common color to help reinforce the behavior modification through out the day.

The Risks

There is no conclusive evidence that hypnotism to quit smoking has any real benefits or that it has any real harmful effects, however because of this it is recommended that a person seek a doctor’s opinion before starting any program in which they are not sure of the safety. Also in choosing a group or individual to perform the hypnosis it is a good idea to thoroughly research the therapist’s credentials and the testimonials, to be sure quality services are being administered.

Stop smoking hypnosis may not be an instant easy fix to a problem that has been battled and struggled with for years, but, the therapy can help along with a support system and a strong desire to succeed. Hypnosis to quit smoking is thought to help reduce cravings, increase will power, and reduce withdrawal effects according to its advocates.