Hypnosis: a growing trend to cut addiction

FARMERSBURG, Ind. (WTHI) - For some people giving up a habit may seem impossible. But one growing trend is seeing patients turn to hypnotism for relief.

Dana Fry smoked for 10 years.

Then she decided she needed to quit, not only for her sake, but for her family's.

“I’m so glad my kids don’t have to breathe that,” said Dana.    

Dana went to a hypnosis seminar, so she could find the strength to quit without medication.

She wasn't sure it would work, but decided to give it try.

“It was just very relaxing and soothing. I wasn’t scared at all,” said Dana.    

The stigma surrounding hypnosis suggests people who have been hypnotized lose control of their behavior.

One professional, clinical hypnotist, Jerri Wilkerson, told stated they simply suggest their patients experience changes in sensations, perceptions, thoughts and behavior.

Basically, it is just a state of relaxation and focus.

Hypnosis supposedly has been used in the treatment of pain, depression, anxiety, stress, habit disorders and other conditions.

One viewer's comment on WTHI's Facebook even said being hypnotized cured her craving for chocolate or candy.

Wilkerson said anyone is a candidate for hypnosis, as long as they want to make a change.

However, psychologists from Indiana State University said while it can be helpful, it's best used in moderation, in addition to other treatments. 

But for Dana, she said the results for her were nothing short of miraculous.

Not only has she not had one craving in the past 10 years, she actually finds cigarettes and smoke revolting.  

“It’s actually like, if someone does, like I said, if someone does smoke, or if I smell smoke, it’s almost like a panic feeling of, ‘oh my gosh, I can’t breathe’… I never had that craving ever again,” said Dana.

For more information about hypnotherapy, head to the American Psychological Association website .

You can also check out Jerri Wilkerson's website .