As part of my BSc (Hons) dissertation, I conducted a review exploring the effectiveness of hypnotherapy for treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). My work was published in Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, a leading peer-reviewed journal in the field of gastroenterology.

The review found promising evidence that group hypnotherapy for adults and self-help hypnotherapy (audio recordings) for children can be effective treatments for mild to moderate IBS. While more research is needed for severe cases, the findings highlighted the powerful connection between psychological wellbeing and physical symptoms.

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This research deepened my interest in how the mind and body interact — particularly in the context of anxiety, where physical symptoms and emotional distress often go hand-in-hand. It also reinforced my belief in offering integrative, evidence-based approaches to support lasting change.