Managing IBS: How Hypnotherapy Can Help
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can significantly impact your quality of life and social relationships. This common gastrointestinal disorder is estimated to affect up to 30% of the UK population and more than 10% of Americans, with the National Institute of Health reporting that 11% to 20% of the population worldwide experiences IBS.
Despite its prevalence, IBS remains relatively unknown to many. The medical community has limited understanding of the condition, and its exact cause is still unidentified. However, it is believed to be linked to abnormal functioning in the brain-gut axis, where chemicals produced in the gut can influence our emotional and mental states.
The Role of Hypnotherapy in Managing IBS
Hypnotherapy has emerged as an effective method for managing anxiety, stress, and emotional eating, all of which can exacerbate IBS symptoms. In this article, we’ll explore how hypnotherapy can help improve the symptoms of IBS.
“I loved hypnotherapy even though I was apprehensive about what to expect. My first session left me feeling like I had spent time with an old friend. I was so relaxed that it was hard to believe I was actually hypnotized. The sessions provided relief from my abdominal pain and helped me overcome my irrational fear of public toilets. Hypnotherapy has given me a new perspective on life, teaching me to accept and cope with my chronic digestive problems.”
What is IBS?
IBS is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterised by symptoms such as abdominal pain, urgency, bloating, and gas. Treatment options for IBS range from medication to dietary changes, but hypnotherapy is gaining recognition for its potential benefits. As noted in the NICE Guidelines (2008), “Hypnotherapy should be considered for people with IBS.”
Can Hypnotherapy Help with IBS?
Yes, hypnotherapy can be a safe and non-invasive treatment option for IBS. Here’s how it can help manage your symptoms:
- Relaxation: Hypnotherapy promotes relaxation, which can enhance your body’s stress response system. By helping you return to a calm state, it counters the negative effects of stress hormones like cortisol.
- Positive Self-Talk: Hypnotherapy encourages positive self-talk, helping you cultivate a more optimistic outlook on your IBS symptoms. Research from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) indicates that positive thoughts can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression in IBS patients.
- Healthy Relationship with Food: Hypnotherapy can change your relationship with food, encouraging healthier eating habits and helping you identify triggers for your IBS symptoms.
- Symptom Management Tools: Hypnotherapy equips you with strategies to manage your symptoms during flare-ups, giving you greater control over your condition.
What to Expect During a Hypnotherapy Session for IBS
During your free consultation, I’ll ask about your physical, emotional, and mental well-being, including your symptoms and challenges. This information will help us create a personalised session plan and set achievable goals together.
In a typical hypnotherapy session for IBS, you will relax in a comfortable position. I’ll guide you through breathing exercises and other relaxation techniques to help you reach a trance-like state, where you’ll be more open to suggestions.
I will then offer relevant suggestions to help you feel more in control of your symptoms and alter any unwanted behaviours positively. Together, we’ll shift your focus from your IBS challenges to positive experiences, such as times when you felt healthy and relaxed. Additionally, cognitive techniques will be introduced to help you manage stress and anxiety, as well as identify foods that may trigger symptoms.
It’s important to note that hypnotherapy is not a replacement for medication or other treatments. Instead, it works best in conjunction with these therapies to help reduce stress and enhance your quality of life.
At the end of each session, there will be time for questions and discussion about the session’s content. I may also provide you with recordings to support your progress between sessions.
How Long Does Hypnotherapy for IBS Take?
Each session lasts 60 minutes. The number of sessions varies based on your needs and the issues you wish to address, typically ranging from 1 to 6. During your free consultation, we can discuss this further to provide you with a clearer picture.
Where Are Sessions Held?
Sessions are available in person at Precious Health in Hale, Altrincham WA16 9NZ, as well as online or via telephone.
How Much Does Hypnotherapy for IBS Cost?
The cost is £70 per session, which includes support recordings to help maintain your progress between sessions.
How to Book
To book your FREE consultation, click here to access our live calendar, or call me at 07799 032191. I’m available to answer your questions, schedule an appointment, and provide more information about my hypnotherapy services.
Your Path to Relief
Hypnotherapy is a convenient option for those living in Manchester, Altrincham, Sale, Hale, Bowdon, Timperley, Cheadle, Didsbury, Knutsford, and Lymm.
I look forward to hearing from you and helping you take control of your IBS symptoms!
Samantha Chater
Clinical Hypnotherapist