Hypnosis and bedwetting (enuresis)
Bedwetting (enuresis) is a common condition but it’s easy to feel isolated and frustrated as a parent because it’s one of those topics that people don’t talk about for fear of ridicule, judgement or just embarrassment.
There are different stats cited in how many children and at what age are affected and how more boys than girls are impacted. Whatever the stats, they do demonstrate a decreasing trend of nocturnal enuresis with increasing age, and it can be a genetic predisposition.
Management and treatment are crucial – not only from a physical perspective but also due to its impact on the child’s self-esteem and emotional wellbeing. And that of the parents too. It can be so hard on everyone involved. It’s important to get support from your physician/GP and ensure there is no out of the ordinary underlying cause.
When it comes to treatment, patience and understanding are key. Behavioural treatments are often the first approach, including bedwetting alarms, which awaken the child when they begin to urinate. Reward systems for dry nights can also be beneficial. In some cases, medications like Desmopressin may be prescribed to reduce the amount of urine produced at night.
Lifestyle changes, such as limiting fluid intake before bedtime and encouraging regular bathroom use throughout the day, can also help. It's crucial for parents to be supportive and not punish children for bedwetting, as this can lead to feelings of shame and anxiety, potentially exacerbating the problem.
Solution-focused hypnotherapy can also be an effective treatment for enuresis as it addresses underlying anxieties and helps in building confidence. Through this approach I can help your child to imagine a future without bedwetting, one where they are able to get up and go to the toilet, fostering a sense of control and empowerment.
This is done by guiding your child into a relaxed state, where they are more receptive to positive suggestions and imagery. I then work with the child to strengthen their visualisation of staying dry through the night. This method also helps in reinforcing the child's innate ability to control their bladder, which is often undermined by the stress and embarrassment associated with bedwetting.
It's important to note that while hypnotherapy can be an effective tool, it should be considered as a complementary approach and used in conjunction with a treatment plan agreed with your physician/GP. The success of solution-focused hypnotherapy varies from child to child and it’s something we would discuss in your free consultation. The key thing is – you’re not alone.