Hypnosis is a therapy that targets the subconscious fears and stressors underlying panic attacks. The hypnotic state provides more direct access to the subconscious mind and aims to change the thought patterns that cause panic attacks. With this method, the individual can learn to better manage the physical and emotional reactions they experience during panic attacks.
What is a Panic Attack?
A panic attack is a sudden and intense feeling of fear or anxiety, usually manifested by physical symptoms (rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, etc.). Hypnosis focuses on discovering the cause of these symptoms and alleviating them.
How to Treat Panic Attacks with Hypnosis?
1. Preparation and Assessment Phase
Before hypnosis treatment begins, the therapist collects information about the frequency of panic attacks, their triggers and the person’s general life situation.
- Interview with the client: When the panic attacks started, when they are triggered and the stress factors in the client’s life are evaluated.
- Creating an Environment of Trust: A reassuring environment is created for the person to feel comfortable during hypnosis.
2. Relaxation and entering trance
This stage allows the person to relax mentally and physically.
- Deep Breathing Exercises: The person relaxes their body by taking slow and deep breaths.
- Muscle Relaxation Techniques: Starting from the feet upwards, all muscles are relaxed in turn.
- Focusing: The person focuses on a particular object, sound or their own breath.
3. Subconscious Work with Suggestions
At this stage, the therapist gives positive suggestions to change the subconscious thought patterns that cause panic attacks.
- Positive Suggestions:
- “You are safe, everything is fine.”
- “Your body is calming down, your breathing is regular and relaxed.”
- “When the feeling of panic comes, you accept it and let it pass calmly.”
- Reframing Sources of Fear: Events or thoughts that trigger panic attacks are reframed in a more neutral or positive way.
- Creating a Strong Moment of Safety: The person visualizes a moment when he or she felt safe and places the emotional power of this moment in the subconscious mind to use in future panic situations.
4. Revitalization and Panic Attack Management Skills
During hypnosis, the person safely imagines a panic attack-like situation and practices how to manage it.
- Coping Mechanisms: During the hypnotic trance, the person learns to practice deep breathing, calming thoughts or other relaxation techniques to manage the panic attack.
- Reassessment of Fear: It is suggested to the subconscious mind that the fears that cause panic attacks are irrational.
5. Hypnosis Exit Phase
The therapist slowly takes the person out of hypnosis and makes them awake.
- “Now I will count to 3 and you will feel fully awake, relaxed and alert.”
- When the person comes out of hypnosis, they are expected to feel calmer and more balanced.
Advantages of Hypnosis in Panic Attack Treatment
- Subconscious Change: Directly targets subconscious fears that lead to panic attacks.
- Relaxation and Stress Reduction: Hypnosis relaxes the body and mind and reduces stress.
- Dealing with Fears: Provides the person with skills to cope with panic attack symptoms.
- Lasting Results: Positive suggestions can permanently change a person’s thoughts and behaviors over time.