That is the question I asked myself. I felt stressed, knew why and knew I needed to do something about it. They say recognising that you have the problem in the first place is half the battle won, so now the question posed was how was I going to totally defeat the enemy?

I remembered reading a magazine article that mentioned hypnosis and the fact that CDs and audio tapes were available over the counter. Could this be the solution I was seeking? Time for a little research. Research certainly suggested that it might work. Written testimonials were mostly positive but others had mixed feelings. A bit worrying perhaps but as time and experience would prove, there is a reason for the differing opinions on the efficacy of a particular hypnotist.

My choice, and one I am very pleased with, is a hypnotist by the name of Glenn Harrold. He has produced many titles and the reviews of his work were mostly very positive. One or two reviewers were not one hundred percent in their praise but that is to be expected. There were enough positives. Also the fact that Mr Harrold is a full Diplomate member of the British School of Clinical Hypnosis, one of the most respected organisations in clinical hypnotherapy in the UK, gives a certain amount of confidence. I have tried another very well known and respected hypnotist but his method was not for me. You need to shop around and do not be taken in by cheap imitations, you will only waste your money and more importantly be turned away from a possible solution to your problem.

My chosen CD arrived. I followed instructions, found a time when I was unlikely to be disturbed and donned the headphones. The first part of the therapy is designed to relax the individual. I knew I was stressed and tense but it was only when I listened to the calming voice and tried to follow instruction that I realised just how tense I was. Any problems? Yes. When the voice suggested that I might go to sleep, my immediate reaction was, NO I WILL NOT! I now know that I am not on my own, it is a natural reaction. You are entering an unknown world and scepticism and fear of the unknown result in your own defence mechanisms kicking in. There are two tracks on each CD and I listened to both in one go.

No, I did not go to sleep but I knew I was beginning to relax. Then on about the third listening I did go to sleep and through the depths I heard a voice telling me to wake.

So, did the therapy work? Yes, is the answer. I began to feel better but also family and friends told me they could see a change in me. Of course that positive feedback makes you feel even better. Do I still believe and do I still listen? Definitely and close family have also bought CDs.

It is said that we live in stressful times. I am not sure that our lives are more stressful than our parents or grandparents; maybe it is a different kind of stress. Life is lived at a faster pace, of that there is no argument. There is also no argument that we should find time for ourselves in our busy schedules. You may not realise how stressed you are. Take note of comments and opinions from close relatives and friends. Do not ignore the warning signs