Expert: Michael Watson - 8/26/2009

Question
In your experience have you ever seen or heard of a hypnosis CD causing a seizure?  

Answer
Hello =

Apologies for my delay ... this one got lost in my mail box.

Hypnosis can be used as a diagnostic tool to trigger non-epileptic seizures ... so I know that this is possible when done intentionally.  (Google "hypnosis seizures" and you'll find the articles.  But if I interpret your question correctly, I think you're wondering whether it could happen accidentally - if hypnosis is safe to use.

I have never heard of hypnotic subjects going into seizures form listening to a hypnosis CD, although people who are prone to seizures can have them at any time - but not caused by merely going into hypnosis.

Of course there are some hypnosis DVDs that have flashing lights and all kinds of intense visual stimulation that CAN trigger seizures.  These are to be avoided by the seizure prone.  But simple listening to CDs should be perfectly harmless.

Best of luck,

Michael