*Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS* website.**
	Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or see this week's feature L: Laxatives.

Hypnotherapy

Hypnotherapy uses hypnosis to try to treat conditions or change habits.

What happens in a hypnotherapy session

There are different types of hypnotherapy, and different ways of hypnotising someone.

First, you'll usually have a talk with your therapist to discuss what you hope to achieve and agree what methods your therapist will use.

After this, the hypnotherapist may:

lead you into a deeply relaxed state
use your agreed methods to help you towards your goals - for example, suggesting that you do not want to carry out a certain habit
gradually bring you out of the trance-like state - most people feel refreshed and relaxed

You're fully in control when under hypnosis and do not have to take on the therapist's suggestions if you do not want to.

If necessary, you can bring yourself out of the hypnotic state.

Hypnosis does not work if you do not want to be hypnotised.

Do not use hypnotherapy if you have psychosis or certain types of personality disorder, as it could make your condition worse.

Check with a GP first if you've got a personality disorder.

Hypnotherapy is not usually available on the NHS.

To find out if you can see a hypnotherapist on the NHS in your area, ask:

In the UK, hypnotherapists do not have to have any specific training by law.

This means hypnotherapy can be offered by people with little training who are not health professionals.

When looking for a private hypnotherapist:

choose someone with a healthcare background - such as a doctor, psychologist or counsellor
if you have mental ill health or a serious illness (such as cancer), make sure they're trained in working with your condition
if you're looking for a therapist for your child, make sure they're trained to work with children
check they're registered with an organisation that's accredited by the Professional Standards Authority

A private hypnotherapy session can cost from £50 upwards.

OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health continues and you can read this week's feature L: Laxatives. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.
Photos: LightFieldStudios and one of VladOrlov, Stockcube, darak77, ajr_images or rawpixel.com.