Why Hypnosis Sometimes Doesn't Work?

Through experience, I have found that there are very few reasons for hypnosis not to work. That said, there are some, for example:

a) Hidden emotional trauma, sometimes this is repressed and unknown to us consciously. Other times we consciously suppress this trauma or even may fail to mention it through poor memory

b) Sometimes we can deliberately conceal something because of shame or guilt; we fear being judged by others!

c) The use of mind-altering drugs

d) Being physically unwell, for example, a cold or flu

e) Suffering stress, extreme anxiety or depression; all of which can affect brain functionality

f) Wanting to quit for someone else, e.g. a loved one

g) Being coerced or emotionally blackmailed into quitting

In fact, there are many reasons that could affect the efficacy of the hypnotic process, that's why I provide a Free Consultation; its purpose is to see if there are any known or unknown impediments that could potentially thwart success,

Essentially the effectiveness of any therapy lies in the depth and quality of the therapeutic relationship; like all relationships, trust is essential. In order to be effective it is usually preferable to have this trust in the therapist; and also in yourself, as this will greatly enhance your chances of success.

That said, creating confidence and self-belief is an integral part of my hypnotherapy practise here in Singapore. Confidence and self-esteem are essential components of effective living. Because of that, I am not satisfied with just removing the desire or need to smoke, I also want to help you to enjoy life!

In the case of any of the above, I recommend treating the underlying issues first, then proceeding with the smoking therapy. Although in some cases, merely the treatment of the underlying issues can lead to quitting. Think of the need to have a crutch with a broken leg, once the leg heals you no longer need the crutches!

Lastly, I thought it may be useful to expand on some of the above reasons why hypnosis for stopping smoking may not work!
a) When some form of trauma is involved, this often has strong survival links. These are held in emotional (implicit) memory systems and as a result, they get triggered outside of our conscious awareness. In such circumstances, the trauma needs to be addressed before a successful therapy can proceed.

b) This is usually, but not always, related to self-esteem or self-worth issues (lack of self-love). Once again, these need to be dealt with first. It is likely that smoking is causal in maintaining the esteem/worth issues? If only because you've been be told or are aware, that smoking's a bad thing to do and good people, usually, are not known for doing bad things!

c) Hopefully, this one is obvious? But just in case, mind-altering drugs affect the brain's functioning, as such, hypnosis will likely not have its normal efficacy?

d) When we are physically unwell, the body's defensive mechanisms are active. Meaning, that certain brain chemicals which are greatly reduced during sleep/hypnosis are still active, e.g. norepinephrine. Also, higher cognitive/executive functions have a dampened response when we are in the fight or flight (healing) response. This leads to a reduction in the way hypnosis communicates with deeper brain systems.

e) This works pretty much the same as in d) but, psychological stress, worse if it's a disorder, affects the way hypnosis works, As such, we need to deal with the disorder before proceeding with smoking cessation.

f) Very often the desire or need to smoke is related to a real or perceptual sense of survival, I explain this in the free consultation. But basically, the brain's defensive mechanisms are more selfish than altruistic. Hence, to quit, it's best to do it for yourself!

g) Generally speaking, we do not like being bullied or coerced into doing something we do not want to do. Quitting for these reasons, generally leads to deceptive or dishonest behaviours. This potentially adds another level of confusion, imbalance and incontinence, to what may already be a challenging life? As a result, we are more likely to increase the smoking habit, than quit!

To find out more, call me on +65 9186 3575 or email info@trans4mationaltherapy.com