Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States, according to the American Lung Association. Traditional methods of smoking cessation include behavior therapy and nicotine replacement. Hypnosis is an alternative method based on the use of suggestion when the mind is in a trance-like state. Health organizations such as the American Heart Association sponsor smoking-cessation programs in local hospitals. And some private psychologists also offer stop-smoking hypnosis. The American Cancer Society advises that studies of hypnosis have not supported it as a quitting method that works. "Still, some people find it useful," the cancer society says.
Step 1
The cancer society advises asking your primary-care physician if he can refer you to a qualified hypnotherapist.
Finding a hypnotherapist who is a licensed psychologist is important, according to the website Quit Smoking Support. "One thing we can tell you ... is that the quality of hypnotherapy varies widely and it is very important to do your research before choosing a therapist," the website says. Although you may find a low-cost stop-smoking session in your city, private sessions can run as high as $200, and four sessions are needed for maximum success, Quit Smoking Support says.
Step 2
After hypnotherapy, go home and record affirmations and suggestions. Use your voice recorder to create a tape of messages that affirm the positives of being smoke free. Repeat your hypnotist's messages, or record your own.
Step 3
Practice at home by recreating the calm of hypnosis. In a quiet space, take five to 10 minutes to relax your mind. Sit or lie down, close your eyes and breathe slowly. Play the tape or repeat affirmations in your mind. During the day, whenever you're stressed and tempted to smoke, take a few minutes alone to relax and restore your sense of calm.
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Step 4
Get more help if you need it. That may, indeed, mean dovetailing hypnosis with stop-smoking aids and other programs. Talk with your physician about medications and nicotine-replacement aids. Consider additional programs, such as the American Lung Association's Freedom From Smoking, as well. Twelve-step Nicotine Anonymous groups are also available in many cities.
Step 5
Commit. It can take several tries before you finally stop smoking. If you find yourself lighting up again, seek a refresher hypnosis session, or talk with your doctor about alternative medications and programs. Be willing to do whatever it take to stop smoking--for good.
Tips and Warnings
- Make a list of how quitting has improved your life and refer back to it as often as necessary. Explore possible barriers to success, and supplement your efforts with other methods of smoking cessation, such as behavior modification. Hypnotherapy is not for everyone. When all else fails, try something different. Do not give up on your efforts to quit smoking.
Things You'll Need
- Quiet space
- Voice recorder
