I am always pleased to find more information on guided imagery, specifically in relation to its effect with cancer patients. I came across this article which supports the benefits even further.
Researchers at such prestigious sites as Ohio State University, Pennsylvania State University, Case Western Reserve University Schoo. of Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio, Massachusetts General Hospital, Yale, and Michigan state University have all done studies on the effectiveness of guided imagery. Their topics ranged from treating depression, to mental and physical pain, and cancer. All concluded that guided imagery significantly improved the overall quality of life for the participants, by reducing symptoms such as pain, improving their immune response which improved their recovery rate and shortened the length of time of their illness, and improved their self-esteem.
The Cancer Section of the Medical Librarian Association states that “Guided Imagery is considered a complimentary therapy that works well with traditional treatments. Guided Imagery can reduce stress, anxiety, enhance personal awareness, and improve psychological coping skills.” This article further states “Cancer patients frequently request information or resources on guided imagery and visualization. These patients are generally interested in complimentary therapies for pain and nausea control, heightened immune functioning, reduced anxiety and depression and to otherwise improve their quality of life with a positive mental attitude.”
The University of South Florida College of Nursing reported that guided imagery intervention may have an added effect on heightening immune function, after they found a significant difference between their control group and the guided imagery intervention group, while studying immune function in breast cancer patients.
The Cleveland Clinic states, “Clinical studies have shown that anxiety can intensify pain, prolong recovery time and lower the immune system. Guided Imagery can bring about the state of mind and body most conducive to healing.” This article goes on to state the benefits of guided imagery:
1. Reduce stress and anxiety;
2. Decrease pain and narcotic consumption;
3. Enhances sleep;
4. Increases client’s satisfaction and quality of life
I welcome any comments and your input on this study.
Pam Jones, CHt
Tags: cancer, guided imagery, immune sytems
Pam Jones
Portland Hypnosis Pro
Robert Bury
Tracie Mahan
Debbie Taylor
Bunni Sek
Chris
Sean @ panic away
Thanks for posting this article Pam. It’s exciting to know that hypnosis, AKA; guided imagery, is taking it’s place in the medical community. The field of professional athletics has known about it for years, and it’s nice to see it being integrated into our culture in a positive light. As a long time educator, I have used guided imagery to help my students “see” themselves being successful during testing situations. I’ve also used it to help students reduce anxiety when planning to speak in front of the classroom, or school. The benefits of guided imagery for medical purposes is very exciting. I think we’re just seeing the tip of the iceberg. This is an exciting time to be in the field of hypnotherapy.
@Debbie Taylor – I appreciate your comments. You are so right, regarding this being just the tip of the iceberg! For example, so many people are struggling with finances and changes in their lives due to our present economy, hypnosis is a great tool for dealing with that stress or anxiety, without medication or long term therapy. A great option, don’t you think?
Pam,
This is a great article. There are so many ways to use hypnosis/guided imagery in today’s world. More and more people could benefit from the relaxation alone. Stress and anxiety are on the rise rather it be from the medical situations at hand or the economy. Thank you for your post. It was encouraging to read it.
@Tracie Mahan – a href=’#comment-65′>@Tracie Mahan – Thanks so much for your comments. With people trying to cope with all the stress factors in their lives, I truly believe that hypnosis is a most effective tool – both in looking at the health side of it, as well as the economical side, as well. Once a person has completed their session with a trained and certified hypnotist, they will be completely equipped to carry on, using self-hypnosis, which should be part of the clinical hypnosis session. From that point on,clients are able to reap the great benefits of hypnosis long term, with no long term cost!