Return to Health is a twelve-minute hypnosis video designed for patients preparing to be admitted to the hospital. It is intended to help them mentally and psychologically by engaging their unconscious minds in the process of healing.

Description

The script includes the following:

• a formal induction using progressive relaxation
• encouragement to relax mentally and feel safe
• instruction in mind-body interaction
• suggestions for sleeping, eating and eliminating well
• encouragement to be assertive with the hospital staff
• suggestions of pain reduction and accelerated healing
• anticipation of successful outcome and regained enthusiasm for life

Use of the Video

Scheduling the viewing of Return to Health should include a period of pre-hospital exposure to the video and then daily viewings while in the hospital. A one-week preparation with twice-daily viewings is optimum. The video should be seen three times daily during the hospital stay. Some hospitals run Return to Health in their closed-circuit channel, at times that allow for more private screenings. The video can be helpful for most hospital procedures including operations, chemotherapy, dialysis, use of respirators, recuperation from orthopedic procedures, obstetrical and gynecological procedures and other inpatient situations in which a good mental attitude will improve a patient's recovery. It is not intended for children under the age of twelve.

Development
	The narrative was written by Tony Madrid, Ph.D., a psychologist at Russian River Counselors, Monte Rio, California, and an adjunct associate professor at the University of San Francisco. The video was produced by Skye Davis of Multi-Image Video in Santa Rosa.

This hospital hypnosis video was piloted at Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital. Two patient groups were used: women undergoing hysterectomies and patients receiving hip replacements. Nearly all patients reported feeling emotionally fit throughout their hospital stay. The medical staff indicated that they felt the video was effective and safe, resulting in increased patient compliance and overall well-being.

Endorsement

This is a thoughtfully created tape recording for use with children and adults who are in pain, facing surgery, feeling discouraged or feeling ill. Because of its non-specific wording the subconscious mind of each individual who hears the message will process the suggestions according to his or her immediate and future needs. This is the benefit we get from unconscious thought.

Availability
	Return to Health can be obtained in any of the following ways:  Physicians can buy this video and recommend its use to selected patients  Patients, with their doctors' approval, can purchase the video  Hospitals can contract for a licensing agreement  The video may by obtained by contacting Dr Madrid at:  Russian River Counselors PO Box 519 Monte Rio, CA 95462 or by phone  (707) 865-1200.