Is there a role for hypnosis in palliative care?

Abstract

Hypnosis has gained popular interest over the last few decades and has become increasingly subject to research study. Evidence of benefit in the palliative care setting is largely lacking, but it has been shown to have a favourable impact on psychological symptoms, especially anxiety, as well as chronic pain conditions. As a personalised approach, hypnotherapy is an excellent example of individual-centred care. Moreover, in the absence of significant adverse effects, it offers great promise as a complementary therapy.