Is Hypnosis Dangerous? Here’s the Truth
Hypnosis has always carried a bit of mystery — partly because movies and TV shows love to dramatize it. Swinging pocket watches, mind control, people clucking like chickens — all of this makes hypnosis look spooky, manipulative, or even risky.
So, is hypnosis dangerous? Can it mess with your mind, make you lose control, or do something you’ll regret? Here’s the real answer, based on what science — and modern practice — actually say.
What Is Hypnosis, Really?
First, let’s clear up what hypnosis actually is. Hypnosis is simply a natural mental state where your mind is highly focused and deeply relaxed — a lot like daydreaming or drifting off to sleep.
During hypnosis:
You are fully aware of where you are.
You can’t be forced to do something against your morals or beliefs.
You can come out of it at any time — you’re not “stuck.”
Modern hypnotherapy is used every day to help people manage anxiety, stop smoking, ease chronic pain, sleep better, and break bad habits — with zero mind control involved.
What the Science Says
Medical organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA) and the British Psychological Society (BPS) recognize hypnosis as a legitimate clinical tool when used by trained professionals.
Brain scans show that hypnosis is not some mysterious trance — it’s a natural shift in brainwaves that happens when you’re deeply focused. There’s nothing “unnatural” or physically harmful about it.
Can Hypnosis Be Dangerous?
Used responsibly, hypnosis is very safe. But, like any tool, it can be misused in the wrong hands. Here’s what you should know:
1. Hypnosis won’t erase your free will.
You can’t be hypnotized to reveal secrets, commit crimes, or do things you wouldn’t normally do. That’s Hollywood fiction.
2. Hypnosis can’t unlock “hidden” memories reliably.
This is where problems can happen. Decades ago, some therapists wrongly used hypnosis to try to recover “repressed memories.” Research shows this can create false memories instead — which can be emotionally damaging. For this reason, most reputable hypnotherapists don’t do “memory recovery” anymore.
3. Hypnosis is not a substitute for medical or psychiatric care.
Hypnosis can help manage stress, habits, or pain, but it’s not a cure for serious mental health conditions on its own. It should complement, not replace, good medical care.
4. Unqualified hypnotists are a risk.
Always choose a trained, ethical professional or a trusted tool. Ethical hypnosis respects your boundaries — it never asks you to give up control or do something that feels wrong.
Is Self-Hypnosis Dangerous?
No — if you’re listening to reputable self-hypnosis recordings (like burble’s sessions), it’s safe for most people. Self-hypnosis is really just guided relaxation with positive suggestions — a healthy way to train your mind to break old habits, manage stress, and sleep better.
The only exception: people with certain mental health conditions, like psychosis or severe dissociation, should talk to a doctor before trying hypnosis. That’s true for any mental wellness tool that works deeply with the mind.
The Real Risk: Not Using It At All
Ironically, the biggest “danger” with hypnosis is not that it’s too powerful — but that myths stop people from using it. Hypnosis can be a safe, science-backed way to calm anxiety, reframe negative thoughts, and support healthy change — all things that can protect your mental well-being, not harm it.
Final Takeaway
So, is hypnosis dangerous? Not when you understand what it really is: a natural, focused state that gives you better access to your mind — without giving up your free will.
When used with care and guidance, hypnosis is one of the safest ways to tap into your subconscious and change the patterns that hold you back.
Curious to try it safely? With burble, you get access to ethical, science-backed sessions and calming soundscapes — always in your control, always on your terms.