Can Hypnosis Trigger a Psychotic Episode?
Some potential clients who are dealing with mental illness often ask me ‘can hypnotherapy cause psychosis?
It’s a very real concern, which is why if you’re suffering from any kind of psychotic illness, you should always consult with your doctor before undergoing hypnosis.
It’s important to understand the difference between a condition that is organic, or physiological in origin, and one that is psychologically based.
What is Psychosis?
Psychosis is a mental disorder where a person loses the capacity to tell what’s real from what isn’t.
A person affected with psychosis might believe things that aren’t real and/or become confused or behave erratically.
Symptoms include:
- Agitated behaviour;
- Hallucinations;
- Disordered behaviour.
It can occur as part of other mental illnesses, and in some cases, can be difficult to diagnose. Some examples of a psychotic illnesses include schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder or bipolar affective disorder.
How Is Psychosis Treated?
A psychotic illness can’t be treated with willpower, alternative therapies, diet or supplements.
It’s not caused by negative beliefs, past trauma or ‘weak-mindedness’, and must be treated by a medical professional.
Treatments for psychosis include:
- Antipsychotic medication;
- Specialist psychological therapies;
- Community support programs.
Some people with mental illnesses look for alternative treatments to support them in other areas of life such as treatment for anxiety, confidence or other issues, and this is perfectly appropriate, provided they get clearance from a psychiatrist or medical professional.
Can You Use Hypnotherapy to Treat Psychosis?
Some individuals ask me if hypnotherapy can be used to treat psychotic illnesses, and the answer is no. Illnesses that are physiological in origin will not respond to hypnosis.
That is, hypnosis cannot make changes to your brain chemistry, your hormones or any other physical system.
In fact, you should avoid hypnosis if you’re currently having psychotic episodes, or if you have been diagnosed with schizophrenia.
Full Disclosure Is Paramount
If you’re being treated for psychosis, it’s crucial that you’re honest with your hypnotherapist so she can make a sound judgement call based on the information provided.
This is because hypnosis can trigger psychotic episodes in those who are not stabilized on medication.
Hypnosis can be appropriate for many conditions, but you should always work very closely with your psychiatrist or GP and get clearance first.
Personally, I would not work with a client who is morbidly depressed, agitated or suicidal, nor would I work with a client with a history of mental illness who is not stabilized on medication. In this instance, although it is rare, hypnosis could be dangerous.
If you’d like to talk to me about how I may be able to help you, feel free to call me or contact me via my website.