What is Anxiety?

Understanding and Treating Anxiety with Hypnotherapy:

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions, affecting around 30% of people at some point in their lives. But why do so many of us experience anxiety and what can we do when it starts to impact our daily lives.

The Fight or Flight Response:

As humans, we have evolved to protect ourselves through the body’s natural “fight, flight or freeze response”. When our brains perceives a threat , it releases stress hormones to help us act quickly, whether to run, fight or stay still. While this response was essential for our ancestors , modern life triggers it in a situations that don’t involve real physical danger, like a difficult conversation with your manager or an over whelming to do list. When this system is activiated too often we begin to experience symptoms of anxiety.

How Hypnotherapy for Anxiety Works:

Hypnotherapy uses the power of suggestion to access your subconscious mind and promote positive change. Clinical hypnotherapy can help to treat physical and psychological symptoms, helping you to manage anxiety by:

  • Reducing stress levels

  • Creating deep relaxation

  • Changing how your mind responds to anxious triggers

Hypnotherapy for anxiety works by helping you identify what triggers your anxious thoughts and feelings, then reframing the way that you react to them. Over time, this helps reduce anxiety symptoms and build emotional resilience.

Discovering the Root Cause of Anxiety:

Working with a qualified hypnotherapist can help you uncover the underlying cause of your anxiety, often a fear or belief that leaves you feeling unsafe, tense or on the edge. Through therapeutic suggestion your hypnotherapist can help you reframe those negative beliefs, allowing you to feel calmer, more confident and more in control.

Research suggests that hypnotherapy may be particularly effective for trait anxiety (where anxiety is a consistent personality trait) and conditions where anxiety worsens symptoms such as IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome).

Analytical Hypnotherapy and Generalised Anxiety:

For people living with generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), hypnoanalysis, also sometimes known as analytical hypnotherapy can be especially beneficial. This approach combines elements of talking therapy and hypnotherapy to uncover the root cause of current worries. By understanding and addressing the cause, you can begin to release old patterns and move towards healing.

Does Hypnotherapy for Anxiety Really Work?

Many studies have shown that hypnotherapy can effectively reduce symptoms of anxiety, helping individuals feel calmer and more in control. While everyone’s experience is unique, hypnosis is a safe, evidence-based method that can complement other treatments such as counselling or medication.

Can Hypnotherapy Make Anxiety Worse?

For most people, hypnotherapy is a safe and positive experience. However, if you have a history of psychosis or certain personality disorders, it’s important to speak with your GP first, as hypnotherapy may not be suitable. Occasionally, people may feel mild dizziness or fatigue after a session, but these effects are temporary.

How Many Hypnotherapy Sessions Are Needed for Anxiety?

Every individual is different, but most people notice improvements after four to six sessions. During this time, you’ll learn new coping strategies and replace negative thought patterns with healthier, more empowering ones.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety:

Anxiety affects everyone differently, but common symptoms include:

  • Overthinking or rumination

  • Headaches or muscle tension

  • Dizziness or chest pain

  • Difficulty sleeping or concentrating

  • Rapid breathing or heart palpitations

  • Nausea or digestive issues

  • Teeth grinding (bruxism)

  • Restlessness, irritability, or feeling “on edge”

When anxiety begins to affect your daily life, relationships, or work, it’s important to seek support.

Can Hypnotherapy for Anxiety Help You?

Yes—hypnotherapy for anxiety can help you regain control over your thoughts and emotions. By promoting deep relaxation and positive mental habits, hypnosis can:

  • Reduce feelings of fear and worry

  • Boost self-confidence and resilience

  • Help you stay calm and focused in stressful situations

  • Improve sleep and overall emotional wellbeing

Many clients are surprised at how quickly they start to feel calmer and more energised after just a few sessions. Through clinical hypnotherapy, you can rewire unhelpful thought patterns, find your sense of balance, and start living with greater peace of mind.

Get in touch today, to learn more or schedule your first session Click Here

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