Application of Hypnotherapy in Emotional Disorders that Exacerbate Pain in Cancer Patients

Abstract

Introduction: Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic intervention performed using hypnosis combined with other techniques, without reaching a deep hypnotic state. Due to its simple application, effectiveness, and lack of side effects, it is employed in this research to achieve pain reduction from an emotional standpoint in cancer patients.

Objective: To implement hypnotherapy as a non-pharmacological treatment to reduce levels of anxiety, depression, and emotional disorders that exacerbate pain perception.

Method: A mixed-methodology investigation was developed, with an exploratory, multiple-case study design, conducted from September 2024 to September 2025. A structured interview, the Pathological Anxiety Scale, the Patient Health Questionnaire, and the Visual Analog Scale were utilized. Sampling was non-probabilistic and intentional, based on selection criteria. The sample comprised 30 female patients, aged between 29 and 70 years. The treatment was administered through a hypnotherapy protocol. Data were processed using SPSS/26 software.

Results: The efficacy of hypnotherapy as a non-pharmacological treatment in reducing levels of anxiety, depression, and pain intensity in the study patients was confirmed.

Conclusions: Upon completion of the hypnotherapy sessions, it was verified that the reduction in anxiety and depression levels significantly decreased the pain intensity reported by patients, thereby promoting appropriate therapeutic adherence and improved quality of life.