Can Hypnosis Help Control Anxiety and Trauma?

Hey gang! Welcome to another episode of the AnxietyRX Podcast. In the latest episode of my podcast, I had the delightful opportunity to engage in an enlightening conversation with none other than Dr. David Spiegel, a true virtuoso in the realm of hypnosis. 

Dr. Spiegel, a Wilson Professor and Associate Chair of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University School of Medicine, is not only a prolific author and researcher but also the co-founder and chief scientific officer of the innovative self-hypnosis app, Reveri.

He illuminated the ways in which hypnosis can be a powerful ally in managing anxiety and healing from trauma. Together, we explored the fascinating interplay between the mind and the body, and we spoke about the insula – a critical part of our brain that helps us decide where to focus our attention.

Dr. Spiegel recounted an inspiring tale about a patient of his, underscoring the profound importance of feeling empowered in one's own journey toward wellness and self-perception.

We delved into the nature of worry, recognizing its intent to safeguard us, yet acknowledging the detrimental impact of self-criticism. 

And here's something truly exciting – the app he’s been developing called Reveri, harnesses the power of hypnosis to tackle various challenges. 

It's absolutely captivating to consider how hypnosis can facilitate a deeper connection with our inner selves and enhance our sense of autonomy.

And guess what? My team has added timestamps for you below to scan what topics are covered in this episode and if you want to jump ahead you can!

Dr. David Spiegel has gifted all of you TWO WEEKS FREE of his self-hypnosis app, Reveri. Click the link below to get access:

https://reverihealth.app.link/anxietyrx

Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions.

PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 3100+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX

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Timestamps: 

The anxiety of growing up with a mentally ill parent (00:01:12) Discussion on the impact of growing up with a mentally ill parent on anxiety development.

Understanding anxiety and bipolar disorder (00:02:03) Personal experiences and fears related to developing bipolar disorder and how it led to anxiety disorder.

Effects of MDMA and hypnosis on anxiety (00:03:36) Discussion on the effects of MDMA and hypnosis on anxiety and brain activity.

Hypnosis and psychedelics in altering self-perception (00:04:33) Exploring the impact of hypnosis and psychedelics on altering self-perception and ego dissolution.

Self-judgment and inner critic (00:06:01) Addressing self-judgment and the role of the posterior cingulate in self-referential thought.

Pendulum swing dissociation and trauma metabolism (00:07:59) Discussing the role of pendulum swing dissociation in trauma metabolism and the importance of safety in therapy.

Creating mental state change and self-hypnosis (00:12:35) Exploring the therapeutic benefits of creating mental state change and the role of self-hypnosis in enhancing control.

Revisiting emotional trauma and changing emotional signature (00:18:39) Discussion on revisiting emotional trauma and changing emotional signatures through brain activity.

The insula and hypnosis (00:19:41) Dr. Spiegel explains the role of the insula in hypnosis and its impact on mind-body connection.

Hypnosis and mind-body control (00:20:32) Dr. Spiegel discusses how hypnosis can change the body's sensations and control mind-body connections.

Reconstructing traumatic events (00:22:55) Dr. Spiegel shares a story of using hypnosis to help a woman reframe a traumatic event and change her perspective.

Self-empowerment and overcoming trauma (00:23:23) Dr. Spiegel discusses how hypnosis can empower individuals to change their perspectives on traumatic experiences.

Overcoming victim mentality (00:26:31) The conversation explores how hypnosis can help individuals overcome victim mentality and regain agency.

Hypnosis and transference (00:32:38) Dr. Spiegel discusses the concept of transference and its relevance in hypnosis therapy.

Creating a safe space in hypnosis (00:33:27) The conversation delves into how hypnosis can create a safe environment to address unresolved grief and change old patterns.

Control and therapeutic context in hypnosis (00:36:22) Dr. Spiegel explains how hypnosis provides a therapeutic context for individuals to face and control their traumatic experiences.

Empowerment through hypnosis (00:38:34) The discussion highlights how hypnosis empowers individuals to change their perspectives and feel better.

The protective ego and worry (00:39:02) Discussion on the protective nature of ego and the difficulty in moving away from worry.

Facing helplessness and guilt (00:40:11) Exploring trauma, guilt, and accepting helplessness as a way to move forward.

Addictive nature of worry (00:41:58) Understanding the addictive nature of worry and its impact on the brain's reward system.

Reverie app and hypnosis effectiveness (00:42:40) Introduction to the Reverie app, its success in helping people quit smoking, and the potential of hypnosis.

Healing through hypnosis and self-parenting (00:46:26) Discussion on healing anxiety by reconnecting the adult and child self through hypnosis and self-parenting.

Transformative experiences with hypnosis (00:47:16) Anecdote about a transformative experience with hypnosis in dealing with past trauma.

Using play and hypnosis for trauma (00:50:49) Exploring the role of play and hypnosis in addressing trauma and reconnecting with the self.

Reverie app programs and impact (00:50:59) Overview of the programs offered by the Reverie app for stress management, focus, sleep, phobias, and more.

Self-hypnosis and guided imagery (00:53:24) Insight into the use of self-hypnosis and guided imagery for personal development and connection.