Thus, hypnotism simply reinforces what the patient really desires, but is otherwise unable to accomplish on his own. It takes only a few minutes to induce the hypnotic state. Patients can learn self-hypnosis to reinforce the goals of the therapy. Almost everyone can be hypnotized. A hypnotic state can be entered and departed in just a few seconds.
Researchers don t know exactly why the technique has an effect on health.
Brain scans show an increase in activity in a part of the brain known as the anterior cingulate gyrus during the hypnotic trance. Hypnotism also seems to increase the activity of a brain chemical called dopamine. Experts say that hypnosis is a not a medical treatment by itself, but rather a facilitator of care. Therefore, hypnosis should be used in conjunction with standard medical treatments. The information on this factsheet is not meant to substitute for a consultation with your physician or with another healthcare professional.