Please note that studies have shown no effect or even a negative effect of alternative therapies. This information is provided to you so you can make an informed choice about which method or methods to use to help you quit smoking.

Hypnotherapy and acupuncture are alternative treatments that might help you quit smoking. In order to obtain the best results with either hypnotherapy or acupuncture, you should work with a professional. To find a licensed hypnotherapist in your area, visit HypnoDirect.com . To find a medical acupuncturist near you, visit the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture .

Hypnotherapy

A hypnotherapist puts you in a trance and then has you use your subconscious mind to break the smoking habit. This technique is most successful when you work individually with a professional hypnotherapist. Do not rely on group hypnosis seminars and stage hypnotists.

Under hypnosis, you become very relaxed, but you do not fall asleep. Then the hypnotherapist quietly suggests motivations for you not to smoke. Effective hypnotherapy reinforces a positive self-image that is supposed to help you overcome withdrawal symptoms. The hypnotherapy session usually takes about an hour and also involves one follow-up visit. The hypnotherapist also should teach you techniques that you can use at home.

Results from studies on the effectiveness of hypnotherapy as a smoking cessation tool are mixed. Studies indicate that hypnotherapy is more effective when used in combination with other treatments, as compared to using hypnotherapy alone. Combination treatments can include both holistic approaches (acupuncture, meditation, counseling, and exercise) and traditional approaches (over-the-counter and prescription medications).

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a procedure that involves inserting thin needles into specific points in the skin. To quit smoking, the acupuncturist uses small curved staples attached to a few specific points around the ear. Then you briefly press each staple lightly and in a certain sequence whenever you get a craving to smoke. The only known side effect is the potential for soreness if you press a staple too hard. However, a review by White et al. (2001) of 18 publications found that acupuncture in general is not an effective smoking cessation tool.

Sources:

• Collinge, 2000
• White et al., 2001