Hypnosis for Drinking: What to Realistically Expect (2024)

Hypnosis for Drinking: What to Realistically Expect (1)Share on Pinterest

Does the idea of hypnosis bring to mind a well-dressed gentleman swinging a pocket watch, commanding you to bark like a dog when he claps his hands?

You’re not alone in that. Many people see hypnosis as nothing more than a performance or stage trick. How can it work, if it’s not possible to control someone’s mind?

It’s true: Mind control doesn’t lie within the realm of possibility, but true hypnosis doesn’t involve any type of control. It’s simply a method for putting you in a relaxed state of consciousness, similar to a meditative state or trance, where you focus your attention internally.

This state of extreme relaxation can, however, make you more receptive to certain suggestions. When used by a trained professional, hypnosis can have many therapeutic benefits, including reduced pain and anxiety.

Hypnotherapy, or the use of hypnosis in therapy, can also help bring about behavioral change for some people. Scientific research looking at hypnotherapy for alcohol use disorder is still limited, but it may be worth a try.

If you want to cut back on alcohol use or quit entirely, you’ve probably explored some potential strategies: cold turkey, Alcoholics Anonymous and other support groups, therapy, self-help strategies, even hypnosis.

Here’s what the research says.

Evidence

A recent study looking at hypnotherapy for alcohol use disorder compared this treatment to motivational interviewing, a widely accepted treatment for substance use disorder.

This study involved 31 adults in an inpatient treatment program for alcohol use disorder. They were randomly assigned to two different groups. All attended group counseling and activities, but they also received 1 hour of individual therapy each week.

One group received motivational interview therapy, or treatment as usual. The other group received hypnotherapy instead.

Hypnotherapy, as used in this study, involved asking each participant to visualize themselves mastering urges to drink alcohol in various ways, such as:

  • remaining calm in a situation when stress might trigger an urge to drink
  • passing up a drink at a social event
  • choosing not to enter a liquor store

When following up on the study a year later, researchers found evidence to suggest the following:

  • All participants who responded to the follow-up reported a significant decrease in alcohol use.
  • Participants in the hypnotherapy group reported slightly less emotional distress.
  • Nine participants in the hypnotherapy group reported complete abstinence, as opposed to seven participants in the motivational interview group.

While this small study has a few limitations, including the fact that the two therapies only formed part of a broader treatment approach, the results do suggest hypnotherapy could have some benefit, though it may not have much more benefit than other types of therapy.

Potential explanations

Hypnotherapy’s benefits could relate to its potential for reducing certain mental health symptoms.

Scientific evidence offers more support for hypnotherapy’s benefits in the relief of anxiety, depression, and stress, though research here also remains fairly limited.

If you use alcohol to manage some of these issues, then, hypnotherapy might be particularly helpful.

It’s also been suggested that hypnotherapy may help promote behavioral change. Since modifying drinking habits would count as a type of behavioral change, this could support the use of hypnotherapy for quitting drinking.

Further research, including larger randomized trials, may offer more support for hypnotherapy’s use in treating alcohol use disorder. Future studies might also shed more light on how long these benefits last.

The process of hypnotherapy is fairly straightforward.

Here’s what you can expect when trying hypnotherapy for alcohol use:

  1. You’ll discuss goals with your hypnotherapist. Do you want to drink less overall? Avoid binge drinking? Stop drinking entirely? They’ll also ask about your typical habits around alcohol use.
  2. Your hypnotherapist will talk you through the process and make sure you feel comfortable.
  3. When you’re ready, your therapist helps you enter a relaxed state, generally by helping you visualize soothing, peaceful images.
  4. Your hypnotherapist may ask you to close your eyes or focus on something visually, such as a candle flame.
  5. Once you feel fully relaxed, they help you visualize specific scenarios involving alcohol, like a time when you chose not to drink and felt good about it. Then, you imagine a situation, such as a stressful fight with your partner, and suggest potential coping methods that don’t involve alcohol.
  6. Your therapist may also ask you to imagine and describe yourself in the future once you’ve successfully addressed your alcohol use.
  7. Once your hypnotherapist guides you through these suggestions and visualization exercises, they will speak calmly to help bring you out of the hypnotic state.

When you leave the hypnotic state, you’ll likely feel calm and peaceful. You’ll also remember what happened, including those visualizations of yourself achieving goals related to alcohol use.

This may be what makes hypnosis effective. Visualization tricks your brain, in a way. Imagining yourself doing something makes it easier to believe you’ve already done it. This increases your confidence.

In short, if you believe you can stop drinking, you have a higher chance of success.

Not everyone has access to a hypnotherapist, or therapy in general. If you can’t or don’t want to try professional hypnotherapy, you might wonder whether you can attempt it on your own.

You certainly have plenty of options, ranging from YouTube videos to apps that guide you through the process of self-hypnosis. But do these actually work?

Research from 2013 suggests that, while apps could possibly help you hypnotize yourself, most of them don’t rely on scientific evidence, and few have been checked by a medical or mental health professional for quality. So, sure, they could help, but they might not do much either.

Other approaches to self-hypnosis may have more benefits, though.

Research from 2004 suggests self-hypnosis audiotapes designed to boost feelings of self-esteem and serenity as well as reduce anger and anxiety may help people maintain sobriety.

More recent research from 2019 suggests that self-hypnosis tools have more effect if you’ve already participated in hypnotherapy with a trained professional.

DIY tips

If you want to try self-hypnosis, keep these pointers in mind:

  • Look for resources, whether that’s an app, YouTube video, or audiobook, created by (or with input from) mental health professionals.
  • Consider doing a session or two with a hypnotherapist first.
  • Ask your healthcare provider if they can recommend any self-hypnosis guides.

When attempting to address alcohol use, it’s best to seek support from a trained professional.

Generally speaking, the most effective treatment plans take a comprehensive approach to care. Whether you try inpatient or outpatient treatment, your plan might involve some combination of the following:

  • group therapy
  • individual counseling
  • family counseling
  • 12-step programs or other support groups
  • medication

If you feel ready for treatment, your healthcare provider can help connect you with resources in your area.

You can also start your search with free support from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, or through therapist directories such as Psychology Today.

Some therapists who provide addiction recovery support will also offer hypnotherapy. If you can’t find a hypnotherapist who specializes in addiction treatment, just let any hypnotherapists you’re considering know your desired therapy outcomes.

Research on hypnosis as part of therapy, particularly in treating alcohol use disorder, is still in the early stages. But there’s no evidence to suggest it can cause harm when provided by a trained hypnotherapist.

Hypnosis may not work for everyone, so if you don’t find it helpful, don’t worry. Not every treatment works for everyone, and you have plenty of other options.

Crystal Raypole has previously worked as a writer and editor for GoodTherapy. Her fields of interest include Asian languages and literature, Japanese translation, cooking, natural sciences, sex positivity, and mental health. In particular, she’s committed to helping decrease stigma around mental health issues.

Hypnosis for Drinking: What to Realistically Expect (2024)

FAQs

Does hypnosis to stop drinking work? ›

Hypnosis isn't magic, even if it's sometimes presented that way — it can't cure alcoholism on its own, but hypnotherapy can make a useful addition to a treatment plan for alcohol use disorders or other substance abuse issues. A trained therapist can use hypnotic suggestion to help you stop drinking.

What can I expect from a hypnosis session? ›

During a hypnosis session, you undergo a process that helps you relax and focus your mind. This state is similar to sleep, but your mind will be very focused and more able to respond to suggestion. While in this relaxed state, it's believed that you're more willing to focus on your subconscious mind.

How many sessions does it take for hypnosis to work? ›

But, hypnosis is not a magic wand and in most cases, results won't happen overnight. Remember, it takes 21 days to create a new habit and then a minimum of 3-6 weekly, consecutive sessions to yield the best results.

How do I get my mindset to stop drinking? ›

Ten steps to sobriety
  1. Change your mindset about alcohol so your thinking changes from “can't have” to “don't want”. ...
  2. The first 30 days are the toughest. ...
  3. Join Facebook sober groups so you've got support and accountability.
  4. Arm yourself with alcohol-free alternative drinks. ...
  5. Pour away your alcoholic drinks.
17 Jan 2021

How much does hypnosis cost? ›

The average cost of hypnotherapy ranges from $75 to $125 or more per session, but several sessions may be required to experience results. Sometimes the cost may be bundled into a broader program, such as with smoking cessation or weight loss.

Does being hypnotized work? ›

Results. While hypnosis can be effective in helping people cope with pain, stress and anxiety, cognitive behavioral therapy is considered the first line treatment for these conditions. Hypnosis may also be used as part of a comprehensive program for quitting smoking or losing weight.

How do I prepare for hypnosis? ›

Preparing for your first hypnotherapy appointment
  1. Think about why you want help. ...
  2. Think about your motivation levels. ...
  3. Think about when you want this change. ...
  4. Consider a health check by your doctor. ...
  5. Check your health insurance, if you have it. ...
  6. Write down questions that you want to ask and information about you.
25 Apr 2016

How will I feel after hypnosis? ›

There are many positive side effects of hypnotherapy afterwards that increase as the days and the weeks go by, including relaxation, sleeping well, improved confidence and self esteem. You may experience the halo effect which is a wonderful, euphoric feeling of positivity afterwards.

How do you feel during hypnotherapy? ›

A Word From Verywell. The way people typically describe the feeling of being hypnotized during hypnotherapy is to be in a calm, physically, and mentally relaxed state. In this state, they are able to focus deeply on what they are thinking about.

What is the success rate of hypnotherapy? ›

Author of Subconscious Power: Use Your Inner Mind To Create The Life You've Always Wanted and celebrity hypnotist, Kimberly Friedmuttter quotes, “Reportedly, hypnosis has a 93% success rate with less sessions than both behavioral and psychotherapy, according to research studies.

How do you know if hypnotherapy has worked? ›

Here are 9 ways you can tell if hypnosis is working:
  1. 1) The subject's eyes might look glassy or unfocused;
  2. 2) The subject can only answer yes or no questions that the hypnotist asks them.
  3. 3) The subject's voice might start as a monotone and become more animated. ...
  4. 4) The subject may become paralysed from the neck down.
11 Jul 2021

How long do the effects of hypnosis last? ›

The effects of Hypnosis or Hypnotherapy or Hypnotic suggestion can last a lifetime. Hypnosis can result in a permanent change, for example, and in my experience, Quit Smoking Hypnosis up to 98% of people can quit in the first session.

What habit can I replace drinking with? ›

Summary – Three new habits to help you stop drinking:
  • Remind yourself of your why. Check-in with your why before every potentially challenging situation.
  • Visualisation. Take 5 minutes every morning or evening and visualise your sober self. ...
  • Create new mental patterns. Replace drinking rituals with new routines.

What can I replace alcohol with? ›

What to drink instead of alcohol
  • Soda and fresh lime. Proof that simple is still the best.
  • Berries in iced water. This summery drink will keep you refreshed and revitalised.
  • Kombucha. ...
  • Virgin bloody Mary. ...
  • Virgin Mojito. ...
  • Half soda/half cranberry juice and muddled lime. ...
  • Soda and fresh fruit. ...
  • Mocktails.

Can you be hypnotized without knowing? ›

Covert hypnosis is an attempt to communicate with another person's unconscious mind without informing the subject that they will be hypnotized. It is also known as conversational hypnosis or sleight of mouth.

Is hypnosis covered by insurance? ›

Is hypnotherapy covered by insurance? Most insurance companies will cover 50 to 80 percent of the cost of individual therapy if treated by licensed professionals. Additionally, Medicare covers hypnotherapy in many cases.

Can everyone be hypnotized? ›

Not everyone is able to be hypnotized, and new research from the Stanford University School of Medicine shows how the brains of such people differ from those who can easily be.

What happens to the brain during hypnosis? ›

Suggestions during hypnosis can cause dynamic changes in brain activity [6]. Areas responsible for processing cognition and emotion show greater activity during hypnosis, as well as hypnosis-induced changes in functional connectivity between anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and the large neural network [4,7].

What is the difference between hypnosis and hypnotherapy? ›

The difference between hypnosis and hypnotherapy is that hypnosis is defined as a state of mind, while hypnotherapy is the name of the therapeutic modality in which hypnosis is used.

How do you tell if you can be hypnotized? ›

The Hypnotic Induction Profile (HIP) or the eye roll test, first proposed by Herbert Spiegel, is a simple test to loosely determine if a person is susceptible to hypnosis. A person is asked to roll their eyes upward. The degree to which the iris and cornea are seen is measured.

When is the best time to do hypnosis? ›

Based on these findings, Green and colleagues concluded that the mid-morning may be the optimal time to be hypnotized and the afternoon the least favorable.

Can hypnosis help with weight loss? ›

Answer From Brent A. Bauer, M.D. Weight-loss hypnosis may help you shed an extra few pounds when it's part of a weight-loss plan that includes diet, exercise and counseling. But it's hard to say definitively because there isn't enough solid scientific evidence about weight-loss hypnosis alone.

Does listening to hypnosis while sleeping work? ›

Some of them agree hypnosis is effective while sleeping, some do not. However, the scientific studies, the palpable evidence suggest that sleeping during hypnosis is still effective.

Do you feel weird after hypnosis? ›

Some people may feel dizzy or nauseous during or after being hypnotized. People who discuss traumatic memories may be subject to feelings of panic, flashbacks, or general feelings of anxiety, and the clinician or client may elect to discontinue treatment when symptoms are severe.

Can you drive after hypnosis? ›

You can drive a motor vehicle immediately after hypnosis. Hypnotherapy is about the unconscious mind, therefore it is best to let your directed thoughts (conscious mind) rest and not be analytical. For example, avoid thinking 'am I hypnotised' or trying to relax. Don't try, just let it happen is best.

Is it normal to cry after hypnotherapy? ›

An abreaction is an emotional response during hypnosis or in every day life. The most common emotional response is crying; however, people can also experience laughter and anger. Sometimes, though rarely, therapists deliberately encourage their clients to abreact during a hypnotherapy session.

What are the four steps of hypnosis? ›

The process is basically four steps:
  • The hypnotherapist explains their behavior to them. ...
  • The hypnotherapist then creates or describes a strategy for change. ...
  • The third step involves the hypnotherapist helping the client become suggestible, or receptive to the new strategy. ...
  • Evaluation.
3 Aug 2007

Why does being hypnotized feel so good? ›

HYPNOTHERAPY MAY REDUCE PAIN AND TIGHTNESS IN YOUR BODY

Since you'll be naturally guided towards a calm state, it's common to sense the dissipation of any tightness in your chest and stomach, and your muscles will relax. This process is entirely normal as your body moves to rest and digest.

Does being hypnotized feel good? ›

Hypnosis does feel very nice and relaxing, almost like taking a nap. The big difference is in what you are guided to experience during the trance. There are many unusual effects that hypnosis can have on a person.

Which is better hypnotherapy or CBT? ›

Unlike hypnosis which reaches directly into the mind, CBT is built on training the mind to react differently when the fear or symptoms are being felt. CBT is an action-oriented approach that is designed to curb the unwanted fear, behaviour, or symptoms so the person can then remain in control.

What does a hypnotherapist do? ›

Hypnosis, also called hypnotherapy, is a state of deep relaxation and focused concentration. It's a type of mind-body medicine. A trained and certified hypnotist or hypnotherapist guides you into this deep state of focus and relaxation with verbal cues, repetition and imagery.

Is hypnotherapy good for anxiety? ›

Hypnosis allows the subject to experience often quite deep levels of relaxation and so helps to reduce levels of stress and anxiety. Two important elements of this therapy are the ability to clearly imagine something that makes you feel anxious and then to attain a deeply relaxed state.

How many hypnotherapy sessions are needed for anxiety? ›

Typically for anxiety and stress related issues, a minimum of 6 - 8 sessions are required, sometimes more to get you where you want to be.

Can you be hypnotized online? ›

When you need to stay at home or you don't have time to travel, the good news is hypnotherapy can be provided online. It's convenient, easy to access and just as effective as working face to face. We're all becoming more accustomed to meeting people online via Zoom, Skype or Facetime.

When should hypnotherapy not be used? ›

Do not use hypnotherapy if you have psychosis or certain types of personality disorder, as it could make your condition worse. Check with a GP first if you've got a personality disorder.

How long should a hypnosis session be? ›

One-off services such as smoking cessation or gastric band hypnotherapy can last around two hours, while a general hypnotherapy session will usually take 50 to 60 minutes.

What makes someone susceptible to hypnosis? ›

Individuals vary in their susceptibility to hypnosis, a variability often attributed to differences in attentional functioning such as greater ability to filter irrelevant information and inhibit prepotent responses.

How long does it take to break a drinking habit? ›

Regardless of the reason and goal, 30 days of abstinence is the best way to start. Even if the goal is to cut down, abstinence can assist with lowering tolerance to ease moderation of use, and your body could use the break.

How do I break my drinking cycle? ›

So how do I stop drinking when I get home?
  1. Identify the need. There are a few techniques we recommend to our members who are trying and break this habit. ...
  2. Swapping out the alcohol. ...
  3. Finding an alternative activity. ...
  4. Don't be afraid to ask for support. ...
  5. Be compassionate with yourself.
6 Aug 2018

What to do when I want to drink? ›

11 Tips On How to Deal with Urges and Cravings to Drink and Use...
  1. Keep Track.
  2. Avoid Triggers to Drinking (or overdrinking)
  3. Distract yourself.
  4. Question the Urge.
  5. The DISARM method.
  6. Drink Refusal.
  7. Medications.
  8. Meditation.

What gives you the same buzz as alcohol? ›

Sentia is made from plant extracts that can mimic the effects of alcohol, and is meant to top out around the feeling of having a glass or two of wine.

Can CBD replace alcohol? ›

Impressively, it seems that CBD might be able to replace alcohol by actually helping you to put down the booze. Researchers have found that CBD may help treat alcohol addiction. One review study found that CBD contributed to animals with alcohol use disorder reducing their alcohol intake (1).

What happens if you quit drinking for a month? ›

Summary. Across the month, your body is likely to have benefitted greatly from giving up alcohol. Better hydration and improved sleep will have increased your productivity and daily wellbeing. Your liver, stomach and skin will also have benefitted from not dealing with alcohol.

How do you get the edge off without drinking? ›

Here are ten ways to relax and be healthier without alcohol.
  1. Gain Understanding Of Alcohol And How It Affects The Body. ...
  2. Exercise. ...
  3. Practice Progressive Muscle Relaxation Techniques. ...
  4. Learn Your Triggers. ...
  5. Breathe Through Discomfort With Meditation. ...
  6. Practice Deep Breathing Techniques. ...
  7. Get Involved With Recreational Activities.
20 Jan 2020

How can I relax at night without drinking? ›

Here are five of my favourite ways to relax without alcohol:
  1. 1) Read a good book. Sounds obvious I know but it's one I often put off in favour of scrolling through my phone. ...
  2. 2) Take a long bath. ...
  3. 3) Get outside and go for a walk. ...
  4. 4) Practice yoga or any exercise you enjoy. ...
  5. 5) Meditate.

How do I feel better without alcohol? ›

Here are four tips I have learned to help you face evenings without alcohol.
  1. Prepare ahead of time for challenging evenings. ...
  2. Accept small amounts of discomfort as “work worth doing.” ...
  3. Rediscover what you loved before alcohol. ...
  4. Try three other things to drink.
24 Jun 2022

How do you use Declinol? ›

As a dietary supplement, take 1 packet (7 ml) of Declinol with food 4 times per day for the first 7 days, then 2 times daily for the next 7 weeks, or as directed by your Practitioner. Continue use until your target alcohol consumption goal is reached.

How do I stop the drinking app? ›

Sobriety Counter

This app also provides accountability tips and exercises to help you stay on track. Sobriety Counter has earned thousands of positive reviews from people who've used it as part of their quitting journey. You can find it for both Android and iOS devices.

Is hypnotherapy good for depression? ›

According to a meta-analysis of hypnotic interventions, using hypnosis for depression is potentially as effective as other well-known psychological interventions such as CBT and interpersonal therapy.

Is kudzu good for alcoholism? ›

The roots and flowers of the kudzu plant are packed with an array of biologically active compounds that can have many beneficial effects; it's often used as a hangover cure and to suppress cravings for alcohol.

Can you buy Declinol in stores? ›

In retail location? Declinol is currently available through our website (www.declinol.com). It will be available in retail stores in the near future.

What is kudzu powder used for? ›

Kudzu is an herb used in Chinese medicine to treat alcoholism, heart disease, menopausal symptoms, diabetes, fever, the common cold, and neck or eye pain. It is sometimes used in combination with other herbs. Lab studies suggest that kudzu has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.

What can you do instead of drinking alcohol? ›

Here are some ideas for alternative activities next time you're thinking about pouring yourself a glass.
  • Ride a bicycle.
  • Go for a walk.
  • Meet a friend for lunch.
  • Read a book.
  • Play a board game.
  • Try a new nonalcoholic drink.
  • Attend an exercise class.
  • Organize old photos, albums or books.

How long does it take to be sober? ›

An average liver can process approximately 1 unit of alcohol per hour. This means that if you drink 12 units, it'll take you roughly 12 hours to fully sober up. People who start drinking never do so with the express purpose of developing alcoholism.

How can I drink less without quitting? ›

Purchase Alcohol in Small, Measured Amounts
  1. Avoid hard alcohol. Switching to drinking less concentrated drinks, like beer or wine over vodka, is one way to reduce alcohol intake.
  2. Limit your purchases. ...
  3. Only drink after big meals. ...
  4. Stick to your schedule. ...
  5. Try alcohol-free or low-alcohol options.
29 Aug 2022

When should hypnotherapy not be used? ›

Do not use hypnotherapy if you have psychosis or certain types of personality disorder, as it could make your condition worse. Check with a GP first if you've got a personality disorder.

How long does a hypnosis last? ›

On average most session last from 60 mins to 2 hours depending on the therapist. In that session, your hypnotherapist will talk to you about what you wanted to change and why and then about 20-30 mins of that session on average is actual hypnosis.

Can you be hypnotized without knowing? ›

Covert hypnosis is an attempt to communicate with another person's unconscious mind without informing the subject that they will be hypnotized. It is also known as conversational hypnosis or sleight of mouth.

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