Feasibility of implementing clinical hypnosis and learning self-hypnosis with neurologists to improve well-being

Abstract

Introduction

Numerous studies have highlighted the risk of burnout among neurologists. However, only a few suggest exploring the feasibility of implementing measures to help neurologists manage the anxiety and fatigue inherent in their profession. Furthermore, effective communication is crucial for workplace well-being. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of providing clinical hypnosis sessions to a group of neurologists and to instruct them in self-hypnosis and hypnotic communication methods, given the proven effectiveness of hypnosis.

Methods

We emailed 20 volunteer neurologists from the neurology department of the Centre Hospitalier Sud Francilien (CHSF, France), explaining the purpose and progress of our study. We employed surveys that included validated quantitative scales to evaluate fatigue, anxiety, depression, quality of life, workplace well-being, and communication in the department. Next, we conducted two practice and learning sessions focused on hypnosis, self-hypnosis, and communication techniques in two different groups. Each session lasted two hours and included a theoretical component, a recorded hypnosis session (20 min), or a role-playing segment to practice hypnotic communication techniques. Participants were encouraged to practice the exercises. After six months, the same evaluation questionnaires were given out again. We introduced a questionnaire to assess how regularly the exercises are practiced. The data were analyzed using frequencies, means, medians, and interquartiles.

Results

Out of the twenty neurologists, sixteen (80 %) participated in every session and finished all evaluation scales both before the sessions and six months later. Twelve participants (75 %) reported regularly using the practices. Responses suggested an improvement in fatigue at six months in eight participants, 12 experienced less anxiety and reported better quality of life. Participants who showed the most significant improvement frequently practiced hypnosis and communication techniques.

Conclusion

Using self-hypnosis and hypnotic communication demands personal commitment. However, those who practiced these methods tended to manage anxiety and fatigue more effectively. Regular practice is challenging but could eventually be a valuable strategy to enhance neurologists’ quality of life and communication. These practices are pretty simple to implement.