BBC News
22-11-2007
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Hypnotherapy Aids in Smoking Cessation Efforts
November 22, 2007 — Hypnotherapy is emerging as a promising method for helping smokers quit, according to new research and expert insights. The technique, which uses guided relaxation and focused attention, aims to alter the smoker’s mindset and reduce cravings.
Dr. Michael Roberts, a hypnotherapist and researcher at the University of Manchester, has been studying the effects of hypnosis on smoking cessation. “Our studies suggest that hypnotherapy can significantly increase the success rates of those attempting to quit smoking,” he said.
In a recent study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, patients who underwent hypnotherapy sessions were twice as likely to quit smoking compared to those who used other methods such as nicotine patches or medication.
One success story is Mark Johnson, a 45-year-old businessman, who had been smoking for over 20 years. “I tried everything from patches to gum, but nothing worked,” he said. “Hypnotherapy was my last resort, and it worked. I haven’t smoked in over a year.”
Despite these successes, hypnotherapy remains a controversial topic within the medical community. Some critics argue that the placebo effect might play a significant role in the perceived benefits of hypnosis.
Dr. Roberts acknowledges the need for more research but believes in the potential of hypnotherapy. “While we need more large-scale studies, the evidence we have so far is promising,” he said. “Hypnotherapy could become a valuable tool in the fight against smoking.”