Quality of life and mood changes in metastatic breast cancer after training in self-hypnosis or Johrei: a short report

This is a small pilot study using two psychological interventions aimed at maintaining health and well-being in women with metastatic breast cancer. Out of 100 women deemed eligible, 37 were randomly assigned to 4 weeks of training in self-hypnosis or to a Japanese healing method, Johrei, or to a wait-list control condition for three months. Participants were examined with quality of life and mood scales on two occasions, prior to training and again three or more months later. Most data were able to be collected on 14 participants. Following both interventions, patients were more composed and less anxious than controls. Hypnosis training increased and Johrei patients maintained energy levels. There was a positive change in anxiety levels and a general increase in other mood scores. Such results are relevant to a better quality of life. In conclusion, the participants in this pilot study appear to have benefited by not only maintaining but also often increasing their energy levels and decreasing anxiety and other debilitating emotional states that influence quality of life, health and well-being.