Going to the hospital for surgery can be stressful, whether it’s for a routine procedure or something more complicated. Luckily, there are a few techniques that can help alleviate your pre-surgery anxiety and leave you more prepared for your procedure. Combat jitters before heading to the hospital by utilizing the following methods to relieve stress.  

How to Ease Surgery-Related Stress

1. Gather All Pertinent Information

Fear of the unknown can exacerbate anxiety, whether it’s not knowing what to expect during the operation or concerns about recovery. Put your mind at ease by finding out what your surgery entails, from the preparation process to the procedure itself. This way, you’ll fully understand what to expect, as well as any risks associated with the procedure.

2. Discuss Fears With Your Doctor 

Another common cause of pre-surgery jitters is wondering what the outcome will be. Talking with your doctor or surgeon allows them to explain what a realistic outcome will look like using medical facts and statistics.

They can also provide you with medication prior to your surgery to help you relax and sleep better, should you be unable to quiet your anxiety.

3. Incorporate Physical Therapies

Physical activity can help unburden your mind and release tension in your body. Exercises like yoga, jogging, and biking, can help your muscles loosen up while keeping the mind worry-free and focused on the task at hand. Meditation and massage can also be beneficial in reducing stress and providing a healthy distraction.

4. Talk to a Professional Counselor

If the steps above don’t help you relieve some concerns about your upcoming surgery, consider speaking with a counselor. Your fears could be rooted in another event, such as the death of a loved one or a medical complication in the past, and the professional will be able to help you understand where your concerns come from and how to best combat them.

If you have a medical condition that requires surgery, consult the compassionate team at Bayside Community Hospital in Anahuac, TX. For the last 60 years, this hospital has provided a wide variety of medical services to keep patients throughout Chambers County healthy, including diagnostic testing and surgical procedures. To learn more about alleviating pre-surgery stress, visit their website or call (409) 267-3143.