No, it’s highly unlikely that you can get stuck in hypnosis. Hypnosis is a state of focused attention and deep relaxation where you become more receptive to positive suggestions. It’s similar to the experience of getting absorbed in a captivating book or movie.
During a hypnosis session, you can explore your thoughts and behaviors in a new way, which can be beneficial for addressing issues like stress, quitting smoking, or improving sleep. You have the ability to enter and exit this state at your own will. Even if a hypnotist were to suggest remaining in hypnosis indefinitely, you would still be able to awaken whenever you choose or when the session ends.
Hypnosis is a voluntary process, and you cannot be hypnotized against your will. You remain in control throughout and can choose whether to respond to or ignore the suggestions given. Everyone naturally experiences moments of focused attention, such as when daydreaming or getting lost in a film. Just as you naturally come out of these states, you will also naturally emerge from hypnosis.
Occasionally, individuals might claim they were “stuck” in hypnosis, but this is often due to misunderstandings or specific experiences during the session. For example, the deep relaxation experienced during hypnosis can be so enjoyable that some people may not want to end the session immediately. Additionally, the temporary disorientation or grogginess that can occur as one returns to full awareness may be mistaken for being “stuck.”
It’s important to note the difference between clinical hypnosis, which is used as a therapeutic tool, and stage hypnosis, which is primarily for entertainment purposes. In a clinical setting, the focus is on your personal development and achieving specific outcomes based on your individual needs and goals. The experience is usually calming and supportive, with the hypnotist guiding you through the process.
In stage hypnosis, on the other hand, the participants are often aware that they are part of a performance and are eager to play along. The behaviors and suggestions are crafted to create a memorable and entertaining experience for the audience, rather than focusing on personal growth or therapeutic outcomes.
If you ever have any concerns about getting stuck in hypnosis, rest assured that you are always in control. The power to return to full awareness is always in your hands, and you can choose to end the session at any time if you feel uncomfortable.
Adapted from the original work: “Can I Get Stuck in Hypnosis?” by Wellness Canada.
