Can Hypnosis Help You Quit Drinking? Experts Weigh In on This Mind-Bending Therapy

Can hypnosis help you kick the bottle? Experts suggest it might just be the secret weapon in the fight against alcohol use disorder. Far from stage-show theatrics, clinical hypnosis is a legitimate therapy, backed by research showing its effectiveness for pain, anxiety, and even breaking habits like smoking or overeating.

"Hypnosis is like a mental gym—training your brain to focus and let go of distractions," says Dr. David Spiegel, a Stanford psychiatry expert and hypnosis guru. He describes it as the oldest form of psychotherapy in the West, yet it’s still an underdog in modern medicine.

Hypnosis isn’t a magic wand but a tool to amplify other treatments. It guides you into a deep state of relaxation, where your mind becomes more open to new perspectives. Shawn Criswell, a mental health counselor in Oregon, calls it a gentle nudge toward healthier ideas, empowering people by tapping into their inner strengths. Forget the myth of losing control—this isn’t about clucking like a chicken on stage.

Studies show hypnosis can tweak brain activity linked to attention and consciousness, mimicking real experiences. For alcohol issues, it might curb cravings, boost motivation, or ease stress, says Dr. Lama Bazzi, a New York City psychiatrist. But don’t expect it to be a solo act—it works best alongside cognitive-behavioral therapy or medication.

Some dive into self-hypnosis, entering a trance-like state without a guide. Think of it as a DIY meditation session, though experts like Dr. Ryan Sultan warn the effects may fade without professional help. The American Psychiatric Association and American Psychological Association give hypnosis their stamp of approval, but only when done by trained pros.

Risks? Minimal. You might feel dizzy or emotional, but the worst-case scenario is it just doesn’t work. For those struggling with alcohol—28 million Americans, according to 2023 stats—hypnosis could be a game-changer. Just don’t try it if you’re dealing with severe mental illness, experts caution.

Curious? Check the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis or The International Society of Hypnosis for certified pros. As one patient put it during a session, ‘The body is the temple of the soul.’ Maybe it’s time to stop pouring poison into yours.