The problem with panic attacks is becoming increasingly relevant. Factors such as intense social and professional stress, the influence of social media, and financial instability contribute to the rise in anxiety and stress in our daily lives. Combined with growing social expectations and perfectionism, we can easily say that there is a pandemic of panic attacks. All of this creates the need for effective stress management strategies and accessible therapeutic resources.
In today’s article, we will focus specifically on how hypnosis and hypnotherapy can be helpful in dealing with panic attacks. But first, let’s briefly review what they are:
What are panic attacks?
Panic attacks are sudden and intense episodes of severe anxiety accompanied by physical symptoms that can appear suddenly and reach a peak in a short time. This usually happens over several minutes but can last for hours. People who experience panic attacks often describe them as one of the most terrifying experiences in their lives due to the intensity of the symptoms.
The symptoms of panic attacks can include:
Physical symptoms:
- Rapid or abnormal heartbeat;
- Shortness of breath or a feeling of breathlessness;
- Headache or dizziness;
- Excessive sweating;
- Nausea or stomach pain;
- Numbness or trembling in the hands and feet;
- Cramps;
- Lightheadedness and/or a feeling of weakness;
- Tingling or prickling sensation;
- Chills or hot flashes;
- Tightness in the chest and/or throat.
Psychological symptoms:
- Intense fear or anxiety;
- A feeling of losing control or going crazy;
- A feeling of unreality or detachment from oneself (depersonalization);
- Fear of dying or feeling of emptiness;
- A feeling of losing contact with reality (derealization).
Panic attacks can occur in various situations, and some people have specific triggers that provoke them, while for others, they are completely unexpected and without warning. The symptoms can be very similar to those of serious medical conditions (e.g., heart problems), which often makes panic attacks even more frightening for those who experience them. Often, this fear supports and chronicles the condition, creating a vicious cycle—the person fears their sensations and that they can occur unpredictably, which causes even more fear and contributes to their recurrence.
It’s important to note that panic attacks are not life-threatening and usually do not cause harmful physical consequences. However, they can have serious (debilitating) emotional effects and significantly impact the quality of life. If you experience a panic attack, it is important to consult a professional healthcare provider for appropriate assessment and treatment.
Panic attacks: How can hypnosis and hypnotherapy be helpful?
hypnosis and hypnotherapy can be effective methods for managing panic attacks, but it’s important to understand that they are not a universal cure and may not be suitable for everyone. Here are some key aspects:
Individual approach:
The approach to hypnosis and hypnotherapy for panic attacks should be individualized. Every person is unique, and what works for one may not work for another.
Collaboration with a qualified specialist:
It is important to work with an experienced and licensed hypnotherapist. They can help develop an individualized treatment plan.
Exploring the roots of the problem:
Hypnosis can help the patient/client explore potential psychological causes of panic attacks, bringing subconscious fears, traumas, or unresolved emotions to the surface that may contribute to the symptoms.
Enhancing self-control and confidence:
Hypnotherapy can help develop a sense of control and confidence in the patient/client (guiding them toward their resources and inner strength). During hypnotherapy sessions, they may learn self-hypnosis techniques to practice at home between and after sessions.
A common self-hypnosis technique used in the treatment of panic attacks is to create a so-called „calm trigger“ for moments when the sufferer feels anxious. This way, they can control their condition outside the hypnotherapist’s office.
Suggestion as a key tool for helping with panic attacks
Hypnotherapy for panic attacks is similar to that for anxiety. The goal of the hypnotherapist is to reach the patient’s/client’s subconscious and use the power of suggestion to encourage positive changes.
Essentially, suggestion is a process through which one person (the suggester) conveys ideas, images, or instructions to another person (the subject). This process is characterized by the unconscious acceptance of the suggested ideas. This can be achieved through various means, such as words, gestures, tone of voice, or other communication tools.
In the context of hypnosis, suggestion is a key tool for influencing the subject’s subconscious. The hypnotist uses suggestions to place the patient/client in a state of hypnosis and then convey specific ideas or instructions, which they accept as real and effective. These suggestions can be used to change the subject’s behavior, thinking, or feelings.
suggestion in hypnosis plays an important role in managing panic attacks. The suggestions used by the hypnotherapist are personalized to the patient’s/client’s situation, analyzing what and why triggers their panic attacks and working to change the way the body responds to these triggers. Effective suggestions can help the patient/client overcome anxiety, relax, and change the negative beliefs and thoughts that support the attacks. Here are some ways suggestions can be used in hypnosis to treat panic attacks:
Calming suggestions for relaxation:
The hypnotherapist can suggest calming suggestions for relaxation of the body and mind. This may include visualizations of peaceful and pleasant places, muscle relaxation. These suggestions can help the patient/client reduce the physical symptoms of a panic attack and feel more calm and in control.
Changing negative beliefs:
Through suggestions, the hypnotherapist can help the patient/client reconsider and change their negative beliefs and thoughts that support panic attacks. For example, the patient/client may be suggested that they are capable of handling stress and feeling confident and in control, even when experiencing panic symptoms.
Establishing new associations and reactions:
With the help of suggestions, the patient/client can establish new associations and reactions to situations that trigger their panic attacks. For example, they may be suggested that they are capable of feeling calm and confident, even when exposed to stressful situations, and react more adaptively and controlled.
In summary, the effectiveness of hypnotherapy for panic attacks can vary from person to person. It depends on several factors, including the patient’s/client’s individual needs and reactions, the quality of the therapeutic relationship, and their motivation for change. For the best results, it is essential to work with a qualified and licensed practicing hypnotherapist. suggestions used by the hypnotherapist will be personalized to your individual situation. The triggers of your panic attacks will be analyzed, and the focus will be on changing the way your body reacts to these triggers.
And lastly, it is important to emphasize that hypnosis and hypnotherapy are not always the first choice for treating panic attacks. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional who can choose the most appropriate treatment plan.
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