The Effects of a Single Relaxation Hypnosis Session on Mental Stress in Chronically Stressed Individuals

Abstract. Background: Chronically stressed people often suffer from anxiety and depressive mood. Hypnosis is a technique that can induce a relaxation response and reduce negative stress symptoms. Objective: This explorative study investigated the impact of a single relaxation hypnosis session on stress-related psychological symptoms. Method: 47 suggestible, stressed individuals (87 % female) were randomized to a hypnosis group ( n = 23, 20-minute hypnosis) or a control group ( n = 24, 20-minute scientific documentary). Before and after the intervention, we assessed perceived stress, negative affect, anxiety, and depressive mood. Results: After the hypnosis intervention, depressive mood ( d = 0.36) and state anxiety ( d = 1.00) decreased, while negative affect remained stable ( d = 0.04). Perceived stress was reduced in both groups. Conclusion: A single relaxation hypnosis session decreased stress-related symptoms in chronically stressed individuals. Our results substantiated the stress-alleviating effects of hypnosis.