Effects of hypnotherapy on mood states: Studying the remedial role of hypnosis in cancer care

Abstract

Context: Many people are frightened by the word 'cancer' alone, and they often suffer from psychological disturbances such as tension, depression, and other cognitive issues. Precipitating variables include uncertainty and anxiety about the future, shifts in social roles, and physical problems or their management. Aim: The purpose of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of hypnotherapy in managing psychological disturbances like tension, depression, anger, and fatigue issues in persons with cancer. Settings and Design: Nonrandomized controlled trials were conducted applying before and after control group research design. Matching based on mean and standard deviations was done. Subjects and Methods: Using a convenience sample approach, 57 cancer patients in all were chosen from a semigovernment cancer hospital. Of these 57 participants, 30 were placed in the first group and received medical care as well as hypnosis as an intervention. The second group, which included an additional 27 individuals, received only medical care. The Profile of Mood States (POMS), created by McNair, Lorr, and Droppleman in 1971, was presented to the participants. Statistical Analysis Used: The study employed the independent samples t-test and eta-squared statistics to examine the average difference in mood states between the experimental and control groups and to determine the extent of the intervention's impact. Results: The findings indicate that directional hypotheses on dependent measures are accepted at df = 55, P < 0.005 (one-tailed). Conclusion: It proves that the intervention of hypnotherapy significantly affects the mental health of cancer patients. To be more specific, it increases the level of vigor and at the same time, it also decreases tension, depression, anger, fatigue, and confusion in patients.