Please remember, this column is designed to help the consumer seeking behavioral-health information, and not intended to be any form of psychotherapy or a replacement for professional, individualized services. Opinions expressed in the column are those of the columnist and do not represent the position of other SelfhelpMagazine.com staff.

Question

Is there any known research or projects on using hypnosis in treating drug and alcohol withdrawal?

Answer

There were four controlled clinical trials of hypnosis that were done in the late 1950's to late 1960's. None of them found hypnosis to have an impact on drinking behavior. However, I have not seen studies that assessed hypnosis for treating withdrawal. Fortunately there are a number of effective treatment protocols for alcohol and drug withdrawal which are provided by physicians with expertise in these matters.

07/08/98