People can find themselves in the grip of habits that they seem unable to control. We construct programs in our mind through habitual repetition. If we do the same thing often enough that thought pattern then gets imprinted in the mind. Then it goes onto 'automatic' and starts to control us!

Habits can range from something like nail-biting and smoking to more deep-seated compulsions. A habit may serve the purpose of helping a person avoid uncomfortable feelings. Comfort eaters feel compelled to eat at times of emotional turmoil, and nail biters chew their fingernails to shreds when under pressure.

Some common habits and compulsive behaviours:

• Nail biting
• Hair pulling
• Comfort eating
• Worrying
• Smoking
• Excessive drinking
• Excessive gambling
• Excessive shopping

What's the difference between a habit and an addiction?

An addiction is a physical dependency to a substance, such as nicotine, alcohol, or drugs. There is considerable overlap between addictions (physical dependency) and habits (psychological dependency). For instance, the smoker feels compelled to have a cigarette upon awakening in the morning, after a meal, or whilst driving in the car. The mind has associated those situations with smoking, or in other words the person is in the habit of smoking at certain times throughout the day. They also smoke because of an addiction to nicotine.

How hypnotherapy can help

Hypnotherapy can assist you in changing your behaviour and release unwanted habits, helping you to gain effective control over yourself and your life