Top 10 Ways to Overcome Surgical Anxiety
If you’re one of the millions of people who suffer from surgical anxiety, you know how debilitating it can be. The thought of going under the knife can bring on a whole host of symptoms, from a racing heart to cold sweats.
But there are ways to overcome surgical anxiety and get the treatment you need. In this article, we’ll explore 10 of the most effective methods for managing surgical anxiety. From breathing exercises to visualization techniques, there is something here for everyone. Read on for some helpful tips on how to cope!
1. Understand Your Anxiety
It is perfectly normal to feel anxious about the upcoming surgery. Whether it is a minor procedure or a major operation, the unknown can be scary. But there are things you can do to ease your anxiety.
It is your body’s way of trying to protect you. Know that you are not alone. Many people feel anxious about surgery.
2. Breathe Deeply and Relax Your Body
One of the best ways to combat surgical anxiety is to take deep, cleansing breaths prior to surgery. This will help to oxygenate your blood and relax your body. You may also want to try some relaxation techniques such as visualization or progressive muscle relaxation.
3. Picture Yourself Healthy and Healed
It’s important to remember that your body is capable of amazing things. Take some time to visualize yourself post-surgery, feeling better than ever before. picturing the surgery itself can help you stay calm and collected during the procedure.
4. Repeat Positive Affirmations to Yourself
Some examples of positive affirmations that you can say to yourself before surgery include:
“I am strong and I can handle this.”
“I am surrounded by love and support.”
“I trust my surgeon and the medical team.”
“I am prepared for this surgery.”
“I am visualizing a successful outcome.”
Repeating these affirmations to yourself can help to calm your nerves and ease your anxiety about undergoing surgery. You may also want to consider speaking with a therapist or counselor prior to surgery to help you manage your anxiety in a more holistic way.
5. Focus on Why You’re Having Surgery
Focus on why you’re having the surgery in the first place. Whether it’s to relieve pain, correct a problem like a torn rotator cuff, or improve your health, remember that the end goal is worth any temporary discomfort.
6. Talk to Your Surgeon About Your Concerns
They can help to put your mind at ease and explain what will happen during the procedure.
It’s also a good idea to ask your surgeon any questions you may have about the surgery or the recovery process. This can help to alleviate any fears or concerns you may have.
7. Get Yourself Busy with Small Relaxing Stuff Like Music or A Comic Book
Music can help to relax you and take your mind off of the surgery. There are many different types of music that you can listen to, so find something that you enjoy and put it on while you wait for your surgery.
A comic book can also be a great way to distract yourself from the surgery. Find one that you really enjoy and start reading it while you wait. Both music and comics can help take your mind off of the surgery and help you to relax.
8. Talk to The Loved Ones
This can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed knowing that they are there for you. Sometimes, it is also a good idea to talk to your parents about your anxiety and what they can do to help you feel more relaxed during the surgery.
9. Take A Friend or Family Member with You
One of the best ways to overcome surgical anxiety is to take a friend or family member with you. This can help you feel more relaxed and comfortable during your procedure. It can also be helpful to have someone to talk to afterwards about your experience.
10. Don’t Hesitate to Ask Questions If You Feel Something Is Not Right After Surgery
If you have any concerns after surgery, don’t hesitate to speak to your doctor or nurse. It’s important to keep them informed of how you’re feeling so they can make sure you’re on the road to recovery. If you’re experiencing pain, nausea, or other uncomfortable symptoms, they may be able to prescribe medication to help ease your discomfort.
FAQ
Is surgery anxiety normal?
Yes, it is. After all, you’re entrusting your body to the care of someone else and there’s always a risk that something could go wrong.
How risky is a shoulder surgery?
Shoulder surgery is a relatively common procedure with 95% patients see a positive result. While the vast majority of shoulder surgeries are successful, there are always small portion of risks associated with any kind of surgery.
The most common complication after shoulder surgery is post-surgery pain. Although this is usually not a common problem, it can be very painful and may require additional surgery to clear up.
If you’re considering shoulder surgery in Boise, be sure to talk to your doctor about all the risks and benefits before making a decision.
What happens if you don’t wear your sling after shoulder surgery?
It is usually recommended to wear a sling after shoulder surgery. Though it is not must, you may experience a number of problems if you don’t take the recommendation seriously, including:
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Limited range of motion
- Poor healing
Final Thoughts
Surgical anxiety is a common issue for patients. It can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from the fear of the unknown to past bad experiences. Whatever the cause, it is important to remember that you are not alone in feeling this way.
If possible, attend a pre-operative class offered by your hospital or surgery center. This can help educate you on what to expect during surgery and help reduce your anxiety levels.
When you are struggling with surgical anxiety, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. There are many resources available to assist you in overcoming this challenge.
