Hypnosis as therapy for non-REM parasomnia: A literature review

This systematic review provides an overview of the use of medical hypnosis for non-rapid eye movement parasomnias. It aims to describe the hypnotic inductions and suggestions applied in this context and assess their reported effectiveness. From a total of 427 articles identified through a comprehensive search of major medical databases, 24 studies met inclusion criteria. The majority were individual case reports or small case series, with only one study using a controlled design. Across these studies, 348 individuals with non-rapid eye movement parasomnias were described, with 148 receiving treatments with hypnosis. A positive clinical response was reported in approximately 82.6 % of these treated cases. However, the overall quality of evidence was low, with most studies offering limited methodological robustness and lacking standardized outcome measures. The hypnotic induction and suggestion techniques varied widely, yet general suggestions aimed at improving sleep quality were more frequently reported than specific ones targeting parasomnia features. Nevertheless, the more specific suggestions seemed to have better outcomes. This review suggests that hypnosis could be a promising therapeutic option. However, further, well-designed trials are required, including objective outcome evaluation, and standardized, targeted hypnotic approaches developed collaboratively between sleep and hypnosis specialists.