Everyone has had skin-related problems at one time or another, and in most cases, a dermatologist prescribes medication to make the issues go away. However, some skin conditions may have a psychological component to address before they fully heal. Many people overlook the connection between their mind and skin, but consider the fact that most people blush when they are embarrassed. Our skin reacts to our emotional state of mind, so achieving clear skin could mean dealing with mental blocks that are causing the issues in the first place.
Dr. Ted A. Grossbart, a clinical psychologist and psychodermatology expert from Boston’s Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, believes that people who visit a dermatologist because of skin conditions often have a psychological issue exacerbating their problem. Although the cause and effect can sometimes be difficult to pin down, there is a growing body of research that demonstrates the bond between the mind and skin. Many believe communication through the skin is an important part of an individual’s development of feelings about self and the world around him or her. Therefore, it’s not hard to imagine our emotions can impact our skin, sometimes significantly.
One of the most commonly used psychiatric therapies to treat skin conditions is hypnosis. It induces a state of deep concentration and focus, which affects many physiological functions in the body. It also impacts the central nervous system, which sends signals to the brain that affect emotions. Belgian researchers conducted a medical trial studying the effects of hypnosis on warts, and they published their findings in the August 2006 Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. The researchers found that 53% of the hypnotized patients – but none of the non-hypnotized patients – lost some of their warts. Hypnotherapists used guided imagery to help patients visualize their warts disappearing, and many of them saw results.
If you’re dealing with a skin condition and found that traditional medicine isn’t working as well as you’d like it to, then perhaps hypnosis can help. It’s important to note that you should have all skin conditions checked out by a medical professional. Hypnosis and other psychiatric therapies work with traditional medication, but they are not a substitute. Talk to your doctor to find out what’s right for you.
About the Author: Dr. Steve G. JONES, Ed.D. is one of Your Monthly Mentors, a board Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist who has been practicing hypnotherapy since the 1980’s. He is the author of 25 books on such topics as hypnosis, the law of attraction and weight loss. Dr. Steve has also created over 9,000 hypnosis audio recordings and 22 different online certification programs, which are sold in over 140 countries. Dr. Steve G. Jones works extensively with Hollywood actors, writers, directors, and producers, helping them achieve their very best. He has been featured on Bravo’s Millionaire Matchmaker as both a hypnotherapist and a millionaire and has been interviewed on CNN, ABC, NBC and CBS. Learn More…
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