Hypnosis is a mental state of highly focused concentration , diminished peripheral awareness, and heightened suggestibility. There are numerous techniques that experts employ for inducing such a state. Capitalizing on the power of suggestion, hypnosis is often used to help people relax, to diminish the sensation of pain, or to facilitate some desired behavioral change .
What Is Hypnosis? (Plain Language Explanation)
Hypnosis refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About Hypnosis
- Symptoms: The specific ways hypnosis shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen hypnosis
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When hypnosis occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Hypnosis
- Hypnosis is far more common than most people realize
- Hypnosis is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with hypnosis see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about hypnosis is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing hypnosis, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.