Therapeutic Role of Hypnosis and Neurolinguistic Programming in Psychosomatic Conditions: Cross-talk between Subconscious-mind, Conscious-mind and Body

Abstract

Substance addiction and behavioral problems are common across the world. Addiction is a debilitating illness with multiple factors which involves cognitive, behavioral, and physiological symptoms. If left untreated, it has negative consequences on its victims, their families and the society. A multidisciplinary approach is needed for successful treatment and rehabilitation. Evidence supports that for long-term abstinence, allopathic pharmacological interventions are important, and yet complementary alternative medicine (CAM) may offer additional support. Multifaceted addiction treatment may involve herbal preparations, mindfulness-meditation, massage therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, hypnosis, physical exercise, and acupuncture-related therapies. Hypnotherapy has dominated psychotherapy based on Pavlov’s theory of hypnosis from 1920s to 1970s. However, inclusion of hypnosis is still missing in the curriculum of medical universities. Subconscious memory of a prior event can shape our perception and control our behavior. Subconscious intentions may allow people to respond appropriately in the direction of the goal while the person assumes the actions as involuntary. Hypnosis involves an altered state of consciousness characterized by improved focus, suggestibility and the management strategy which involves hypnosis is referred to as hypnotherapy.