Why do some people have a fear of hypnotherapy?

You may wonder about hypnotherapy as a technique that offers a way forward. Can it help you with, for example, stress, anxiety, phobias, or sleep?

Fear of hypnotherapy is relatively common, and it can stem from various factors, ranging from a fear of the unknown to deeper psychological concerns. Understanding why you might be afraid of hypnotherapy requires examining both the external influences that shape your views on hypnosis and your internal emotional experience.

Where does the fear of hypnotherapy come from?

Let's explore some of the key reasons you may have developed fear around this therapeutic approach. Then, we may be able to move forward and seek out the benefits of hypnotherapy.

Misconceptions about hypnotherapy

One of the most common reasons for fear of hypnotherapy is a lack of awareness of what hypnosis is. The media often portrays hypnosis as a form of mind control, where individuals lose their autonomy and are made to act against their will. This portrayal is exaggerated and inaccurate.

Hypnotherapy, in reality, is a state of focused relaxation where you remain fully aware of your surroundings and retain complete control over your actions. However, the lingering idea that hypnosis is a kind of mental manipulation can make people feel uneasy about trying it. If you hold this belief, it's understandable that you would feel apprehensive about participating in hypnotherapy.

Fear of losing control

Some people fear hypnotherapy because they are uncomfortable with the idea of surrendering control. Hypnosis involves entering a state of deep relaxation, which can feel vulnerable for some. Even though a person in a hypnotic state is aware and can stop the session at any time, the notion of not being fully in control triggers anxiety. This fear is often tied to a need for control in your daily life. 

Fear of the unknown

Hypnotherapy might be a new or unfamiliar concept to you, and like with many things in life, fear often arises from a lack of understanding. If you've never undergone hypnosis before, you may not know what to expect, which can lead to feelings of apprehension.

Not knowing how you'll feel during or after a session might provoke anxiety. It's human nature to fear what we don't understand, and this can certainly apply to hypnotherapy. Education and research about how hypnosis works, its benefits, and what a typical session entails can often help reduce this fear.

Fear of uncovering repressed emotions or memories

Hypnotherapy is often used to address deep-rooted psychological issues, and this may not be comforting. Many of us hold onto unresolved trauma, painful memories, or repressed emotions that we might not want to confront.

The prospect of hypnosis, which can potentially bring these buried feelings to the surface, can be frightening. Even if the ultimate goal is healing, the process of facing uncomfortable or painful aspects of the self can cause significant anxiety. You might be afraid that hypnosis will make you face something you've been avoiding and that the emotional floodgates might open.

Previous negative experiences with therapy

If you've had a harmful or ineffective experience with other forms of therapy, you may be fearful about trying a new approach like hypnotherapy. Past failures with counselling, psychotherapy, or other healing methods can make you hesitant to open yourself up to yet another potentially disappointing experience. You might worry that hypnotherapy won't work or, worse, that it could make things worse. This fear is often rooted in a sense of hopelessness or frustration that can develop after unsuccessful attempts at healing.

Fear of judgment or stigma

Another reason people may be afraid of hypnotherapy is the social stigma that can surround alternative forms of treatment. Some people worry about how they will be perceived if they choose to pursue hypnotherapy.

This fear of judgment may stem from cultural or social biases that label hypnosis as "unscientific" or associate it with mysticism rather than legitimate therapeutic practice. If you are concerned about how others will view your decision to try hypnotherapy, this external pressure might be amplifying your internal fears.

General anxiety or phobias

Lastly, if you already suffer from general anxiety or specific phobias, the idea of trying something new, like hypnotherapy, can exaggerate those feelings. People with anxiety disorders often find it challenging to engage in activities that make them feel vulnerable, and hypnosis can feel like a very vulnerable experience. Additionally, individuals with trust issues may find it hard to place their confidence in a hypnotherapist, adding another layer of fear to the situation.

Overcoming the fear of hypnotherapy

If you're considering hypnotherapy but feel scared, there are several strategies you can employ to ease your fears:

Educate yourself

Learn about how hypnotherapy works and what to expect during a session. Knowledge is a powerful antidote to fear of the unknown.

Start with a consultation

Meet with a hypnotherapist to discuss your concerns before undergoing a session. This will give you a chance to experience their approach and then feel more comfortable with the process.

Gradual exposure

If you're afraid of the intensity of an entire hypnosis session, ask the therapist to take things slowly. You can start with shorter, less intense sessions to build your comfort level.

Fear of hypnotherapy is valid and can be managed through understanding, preparation, and a gradual approach. Start by taking the first step… engage with a hypnotherapist and have a chat. Change can start today.