A special psychotherapy service that lets people experience death is gaining popularity in Shenyang, capital of Liaoning province.
More than 1,000 people have tried this special psychotherapy — being brought back from "death" to life — the Shenyang Evening News reported on Nov 20.
People who suffer from psychological problems or heavy pressure can be "reborn" by simulating death with the help of psychologists, according to Tang Yulong, a consultant of a psychological counseling center.
There is a coffin in a 5-square-meter "death experience room" at the center.
According to Tang, someone using the therapy should write down his or her last words before lying in a coffin covered by a white cloth, and "the deceased" can hear the dirge. Five minutes later, a sound of a baby crying will break the "serene time", and the consultant will open the coffin with a festive song.
"In the past 35 years, I thought what I pursued were what I needed, such as money and a high position. However, after this special therapy, I find out that what I need is not a house, but a home," said Huang, a 35-year-old manager, on a note on the center's message pad after his death-experience therapy.
He tried to commit suicide four times, but was saved by family members or colleagues. After receiving the therapy, he changed his attitude toward life. He asked for a demotion and came to charity organizations to work as a volunteer.
"This therapy makes use of suggestion theory in psychology," said Tang, the consultant.
"However, it's only part of the psychotherapy and is not suitable for everyone. We will choose proper ones to receive this death-experience therapy," he added.
