Your emotions

How you may feel emotionally

You may feel concerned, anxious, scared, nervous or stressed about your surgery. It is common to have one or more of these reactions no matter what type of surgery you are having.

You may:

• have trouble concentrating on other things or conversations
• have trouble falling or staying asleep
• count the days or hours before surgery
• question your decision to have surgery
• become irritable or withdrawn

All of these reactions are normal. There are some things you can do that may help you through this time:

• talk to family, friends, nurse, doctor or clergy
• take a walk
• practice deep breathing
• ask questions and learn what to expect before, during and after surgery
• make plans for returning home (who will help you with cooking, laundry, cleaning and driving while you recover)
• meditate
• pray