By: Roger-Luc Chayer with the kind contribution of Mr. Gérald Henri Vuillien
Photo: Gérald Henri Vuillien by Christophe Pilaire
There are more sensitive topics that we need to address in some columns, and this edition’s subject is one of them. However, thanks to the expertise of our guest, the column ends on a very positive note. This topic has been discussed for a while, and it is with Gérald Henri Vuillien, associated with the École de Formation Professionnelle en Hypnose du Québec and a hypnotherapist, that we will explore the applications of hypnosis for individuals at the end of life.
First, there are three aspects to consider when discussing end-of-life care: the palliative care period, the end of life for the family and loved ones, and the final moments. “When the diagnosis comes that we are truly at the end of the road, several attitudes can emerge. The first is obviously a form of resignation and frustration. Then, there are those who experience a crisis of mysticism, meaning that at that moment, they absolutely want a religious figure, regardless of the religion, to help them achieve nirvana, as it is the most pleasant transition for them. And then, there are those who are not concerned with all that but are faced with the fear of the unknown, of what comes after,” Gérald explains with expertise. This is not only a field in which he feels comfortable, but he also regularly assists individuals at the end of life.
According to Gérald, the end of life is very similar to birth. We witness a child’s first steps or first words, and we witness the last steps or last words of someone departing, and so on. The similarities are striking, and while we rejoice on one hand, we grieve on the other, which is not necessarily a good thing.
“I have never seen anyone experience zero stress or zero anxiety in the face of the certainty of an imminent end of life to date. However, in the case of hypnosis sessions for a person in palliative care, the well-being that can be provided, both physically and psychologically, is appreciated by both the subjects and their loved ones, who see their dear one improving and facing the inevitable with serenity.”
One very delicate question discussed with Gérald was: when the final hours or moments of life arrive, and even if the person is in a coma, can hypnosis still be beneficial?
“It is important to know that even if the person is in a coma, they are capable of hearing and often understanding. That’s why we always ask for the greatest discretion in conversations when we are in the room with someone at that level. We need to give them a lot of love and kindness and help them relax to reach a place of peace. We encourage them to relax, let go of their muscles, and not obstruct the normal cycle of life. We also remind them of important, happy images because we have prepared these sessions and discussed them with the subject beforehand. Through hypnosis, we activate the visual, auditory, kinesthetic, olfactory, and gustatory channels to open the door to emotions. At that point, we release the imagination, and that’s where the journey becomes positive for both the subject and those present with them. The body language is unequivocal,” Gérald explains, always with as much generosity in his expertise as in the love and passion for his art of hypnosis.