The pandemic has caused us to isolate, and limit contact, with family and friends. While we’re all hopeful that the pandemic will transition into an endemic, there are some who are anxious about reconnecting with friends, peers, and loved ones. Social anxiety as well as the fear of catching COVID-19 has led to higher rates of loneliness. Fortunately, those who feel isolated can stop feeling lonely with hypnosis.
What causes loneliness
Almost 25% of adults in the United States have reported feeling lonely during the pandemic. At a high level, there are two basic reasons people feel lonely. Loneliness can be triggered by isolation and limited contact with friends and family members as well as the inability to make new connections. Loneliness can also be triggered by missing someone who has moved away or a romantic relationship that came to an end. Regardless of the reason, hypnotherapy can help.
Depression
In some cases, feeling lonely can be a symptom of depression. Patients who suffer from depression may feel hopeless and anxious which can lead to isolation and feeling lonely. They may also suffer from low self-esteem, intrusive negative thoughts, and low self-confidence. This in turn leads to a lack of motivation and general disinterest. Thankfully, hypnotherapy can address symptoms of depression, including loneliness.
Stop feeling lonely with hypnosis
A skilled hypnotherapist can help overcome loneliness that was triggered by a relationship breakup, COVID-19 isolation, social anxiety, or due to depression. Patients are guided into hypnotic trance so that the unconscious mind can be programmed to overcome depression and feeling lonely. As clients follow the instructions given by the certified hypnotist, they relax and are guided into an attentive state that allows for a shift in perspective. Patients are aware and awake while their limiting thoughts and beliefs are reframed and eliminated.
Addressing Social Anxiety
Feeling anxious about social interactions can also cause feelings of loneliness. As we return to normal, or the new normal, some people may find it difficult to reestablish social connections with peers and friends. The subconscious mind can be taught to eliminate anxiety related to social interactions. Hypnosis can also help boost self-esteem and improve confidence. It stands to reason that a person who is confident and self-assured will find it easier to make new connections and to interact with others.
How the past impacts the present
Limiting beliefs are often formed by difficult experiences. Catastrophic thoughts related to the pandemic can lead to difficulty reconnecting. Low self-esteem triggered by a breakup can create a fear of getting hurt in future relationships. By identifying and reframing the events that led to these limiting beliefs, clients can experience a shift in perspective. The shift is often profound and can help patients reconnect and move forward.
Regardless of what has triggered the isolation and loneliness, hypnotherapy can help patients to boost self-esteem and feel confident socializing and reentering the workforce. Those who are isolating and feeling lonely can experience relief in as little as 4-8 sessions with the help of hypnosis.