Other studies have determined that hypnotherapy helps to reduce preoperative anxiety. Research at Yale University School of Medicine revealed that hypnotherapy significantly alleviated preoperative anxiety and increased beta endorphin-like substances as compared to placebo. On entrance to the operating rooms, the hypnotherapy group had a 56% decrease in their anxiety levels.

A specific type of hypnotherapy called "rapid relaxation" consists of a brief set of suggestions that are usually administered while undergoing a procedure at the dentist. Scientists at Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia used rapid relaxation therapy to alleviate preoperative anxiety and increase beta endorphin-like substances.

The therapeutic uses for hypnotherapy and anxiety have been demonstrated in all age groups. In one study of school children who refused to go to school because of high anxiety, hypnotherapy reduced anxiety levels enough that the children were able to attend school. Another study demonstrated that hypnotherapy reduced anxiety in children with PTSD and complicated bereavement.

Guided Imagery

Guided imagery is a program of directed thoughts and suggestions that guide the imagination toward a relaxed, focused state. It involves going into a state of deep relaxation and creating a mental image of recovery and wellness. Guided imagery can be done with an instructor, CDs, or scripts that literally guide the patient through the process.

A number of clinical studies have determined that guided imagery is effective in reducing the symptoms of anxiety.

An article published in the Journal of Holistic Nursing reported on a study where guided imagery significantly reduced anxiety in women during the postpartum period. The research with 60 subjects noted that those using relaxation with guided imagery had less anxiety and depression and greater self-esteem than did the control group at the end of 4 weeks.

Guided imagery has proved useful in a variety of contexts with regards to anxiety. One study demonstrated that guided imagery reduced anxiety in patients with OCD, while other research has shown it reduced anxiety in college students with learning disabilities.

Hypnosis can help anxiety disorders in more than one way. It can directly decrease anxiety and panic by inducing a state of relaxation. The therapist can also use the hypnotic state to help the patient focus more clearly on issues that might be causing the anxiety. Often the use of fictional stories, used as metaphors, can give the patient a new way of looking at his or her problems. Story telling is more permissive than direct suggestions. It gives the patient a chance to accept or reject the suggestion without feeling that he or she is being non-compliant.

References
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About the Author

Dr. Randi Fredricks, Ph.D. is a psychotherapist and author specializing in the treatment of mental health using integrative medicine and natural therapies. She works with individuals, couples, and families at her office in San Jose, California. Dr. Fredricks' publications include the landmark book Healing & Wholeness: Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Mental Health. No part of this article may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems. Disclaimer: This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Views expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of Dr. Randi Fredricks as articles often present the published results of the research of other professionals. Copyright © 2012.