Is hypnosis dangerous?
Because all hypnosis is self-hypnosis, and the client is in complete control at all times, hypnosis in and of itself is not dangerous. If it were, we would all be in jeopardy every time we get engrossed in a good book, movie, or TV show. If hypnosis is used in conjunction with drugs or medication, adverse effects may occur; however, it should be noted that the adverse effects are predominately a result of the drugs or medication. An unlicensed hypnotherapist is not allowed to prescribe medication or use chemical intervention with hypnosis; therefore, hypnosis only has the potential to become “dangerous” if it is used by licensed healthcare professionals entitled to administer medication.
This is a question that always comes up. The answer is no. Why? Because hypnosis is a totally natural state of mind. You experience it every day when you daydream, remember past events and even while driving! No one can ever get “stuck” in a trance; it’s 100% impossible. (For instance, if the Hypnotist were to leave the room, one of two things would happen: [1] Either the person would wake up because they’d realize no one is talking to them or [2] they would drift into a nice, relaxing sleep and wake up when rested.) If there was an emergency (like a fire, for example), the person would realize what is happening and come out of the trance instantly.
Absolutely not! Hypnosis was approved by the American Medical Association in September of 1958 as a safe practice with no harmful side effects. To date, no one has been seriously hurt with hypnosis. We sometimes can greatly underestimate the ability of the subconscious to protect itself from harm. The only dangers are in misconceptions promoted by fundamentalist leaders who wish to frighten while disempowering their followers. Far too often fear and ignorance have caused more people to hurt themselves and/or others, when wide awake, than would ever occur in a hypnotherapy session.
