Hypnosis is a mental state of highly focused concentration, diminished peripheral awareness, and heightened suggestibility. It is a trance-like state in which people experience increased attention, concentration, and suggestibility. According to the American Psychological Associations Div. 30 (Society of Psychological Hypnosis), hypnosis is a procedure during which a health professional or researcher suggests while treating someone, that he or she experiences changes in sensations, perceptions, thoughts, or behaviors. Hypnosis creates a non-judgmental immersive experience, and it has been used in various forms for centuries.
Hypnosis is not a type of psychotherapy, but it can be used to facilitate other types of therapies and treatments. It is a procedure that can be used to treat pain, depression, anxiety and phobias, stress, habit disorders, gastro-intestinal disorders, skin conditions, post-surgical recovery, relief from nausea and vomiting, childbirth, treatment of hemophilia, and many other conditions. However, it may not be useful for all psychological and/or medical problems or for all patients or clients.
During hypnosis, people are more open to the suggestions of the hypnotherapist, whether those ask the patient to detach themselves from a past painful experience or visualize a solution to their problem. Hypnosis makes it easier for people to experience suggestions, but it does not force them to have these experiences. Hypnotherapy is a safe procedure when done by a trained therapist, and it is not mind control or brainwashing.
In conclusion, hypnosis is a mental state of highly focused concentration, diminished peripheral awareness, and heightened suggestibility that can be used to facilitate other types of therapies and treatments. It is a safe procedure when done by a trained therapist and can be used to treat various psychological and medical problems.