Qusetion:

Can hypnosis or mind control be resisted? Is there a way to overcome it?

Answer:

First and foremost, it’s important to point out hypnosis is 𝙉𝙊𝙏 mind control. Real-world hypnosis is not at all how it is depicted in movies and on TV, portraying people as mindless puppets.

There is a maxim all new hypnotists (that are formally trained, rather than picking it up as they go), and that is “All hypnosis is self-hypnosis”. This maxim highlights that during hypnosis, the client is always in control. The hypnotist serves as a guide to help the individual enter a state of focused relaxation, but the client remains aware and capable of stopping or redirecting the process at any time. The way I like to describe it to my clients is to think of it as a dance. Yes, the hypnotist does lead, but if the hypnotee doesn’t follow, nobody is going anywhere. Active effort from both parties is essential for hypnosis to work. If someone is consciously resisting hypnosis, whether due to skepticism, discomfort, or a strong internal dialogue, they are essentially blocking the suggestions and not allowing themselves to engage in the process. This resistance creates a mental barrier that prevents the state of hypnosis from occurring. Far from giving up control, hypnosis is about taking control of your life and addressing the issues you want to change. While both hypnosis and mind control aim to influence someone’s thinking, mind control is coercive and forces actions against the person’s will. In contrast, hypnosis not only requires compliance but also active, willing participation.

I’m not going to talk about mind control as that’s not my area of expertise, and I’m not even sure it actually exists. But as far as hypnosis goes, if you resist hypnosis, you will not be hypnotised.

If you’re new here, find out more about this section on the About Ask Dr. Mex page.