Hypnotherapists work to help clients with a vast range of physical, mental and emotional ailments. However, some issues are far more complex than just the “presenting” problem. This is especially true for patients who cannot seem to lose weight and build a foundation of long-term healthy habits.
Most, if not all, hypnotherapy patients experience what is most commonly known as secondary gains. These are the “benefits” that come along with staying in your current situation, whether it is a bad habit or something else entirely. Here we will discuss all you need to know about secondary gains and how you can work past this roadblock with weight loss Hypnotherapy.
What Is A Secondary Gain?
The phrase secondary gain refers to the “benefit” someone gets for not overcoming a problem or challenge they are experiencing. For example, smoking may help a person to relax or interact socially with people in their peer group. However, secondary gains make it more difficult to overcome this problematic behaviour.
Where primary gains are easy to recognise when discussing the problem, secondary gains are benefits that take more discussion and searching to determine. This is one of the biggest reasons why many people are unable to make healthy changes regarding their weight.
Many patients are often unaware of how the struggle or challenge they wish to overcome can benefit them in any way. This is because secondary gains are unconscious behaviour that limits any positive progression.
Secondary Gain and Weight Loss
People with Secondary Gain issues unconsciously believe that there are benefits or advantages to remaining overweight. While the conscious part of them actively wants to make changes, eat better and make healthy changes, there are parts of their subconscious that are motivating them to remain overweight.
This type of subconscious block can be seen as a coping mechanism for a deeper emotional or mental issue. For example, someone who has suffered sexual abuse may experience secondary gain as they see their weight as a safety mechanism. Many of these patients hold onto the belief that being overweight is unattractive, thus protecting them from facing the trauma and painful memories from their past abuse.
Hypnotherapy And Secondary Gain
Fortunately, hypnotherapy is extremely beneficial in treating mental blockages such as secondary gain. Hypnosis is one of the best ways to get in touch with your subconscious, where these feelings are often hidden. With the help of a trained hypnotherapist, patients are able to determine what their true motivation is for wanting to change their lifestyle and live healthier lives.
Once these deeper issues have been found, patients can then work on strategies and tools for overcoming them and breaking through any self-imposed roadblocks they may have. This deep work allows individuals not only see the benefits behind making changes but also develop new positive belief systems that support their health and wellness goals.
Overcoming Self Sabotage With Lai Tattis
For people who are ready to make serious, lasting lifestyle changes, hypnotherapy for weight loss with Lai Tattis can offer them the tools they need for success. By tapping into the subconscious mind, secondary gains that may be preventing weight loss progress can be identified and overcome with professional support. Book your free discovery session today to find out more!
