Social Psychiatry Blog

Hypnosis As A Weight Loss Tool

The question of whether or not weight loss hypnosis works can be answered with the simple caveat, individual results might vary. Though hypnosis has been a technique employed in psychiatric treatment since the mid 1800′s it still is not completely understood. The fundamental goal of weight loss hypnosis is to change a dieter’s outlook on food and try to prevent weight loss sabotage through vices such as over snacking, too much fast food, an uncontrolled sweet tooth, eating to sate boredom or stress and other such habits that can derail a diet.

The most contemporary research indicates that the trance like state of hypnosis is a physically relaxed state accompanied by and induced by mental concentration. Other indicators of a hypnotic trance include focused attention, heightened suggestibility and diminished perception of physical surroundings. Most modern research will attest to the fact that the subject remains awake and aware of the session. Even the forefathers of hypnosis reported amnesia in only ten percent of their subjects.

Another factor on whether hypnosis for weight loss works is the argument and discussion on whether the subconscious mind really has a major effect on the conscious efforts or not. However, as long as a few people who have will power give credit to hypnosis continue to do so, the idea of hypnosis for weight loss will continue to be appealing.

Another issue with weight loss hypnosis is interpreting the results of any studies that are actually done. There are many different factors that can weigh into successful or unsuccessful attempt at losing weight, which is part of the reason why these are so hard to get clear results on.

With the subject focusing his or her attention to breaking these compulsions it is then concluded that a diet and exercise program is less likely to be sabotaged by poor eating habits. The theory is that after completing the diet and exercise program, as well as a carefully conducted series of therapy sessions, that a patient will be able to maintain their weight loss as part of an overall healthier lifestyle.

While weight loss through hypnosis showed moderate weight loss, less than 15 pounds, follow up studies did show that the majority of candidates maintained that weight loss three and six months following their treatment sessions. A maintained weight can be indicative of a healthier pattern of eating, which would indicate a successful outcome. Also important to note is that success through weight loss hypnosis is more likely through several individual sessions rather than group sessions.

And if you’re interested in learning more about self does hypnosis work for weight loss, please feel free to visit this online guide all about does hypnosis work for weight loss.


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