My surgery is in 3 weeks, on January 21. I'm starting to get pretty nervous! Any ideas to combat the anxiety without meds?

panteramack · January 2, 2016

Guy

WLSResources/ClothingExch · January 3, 2016

Is it nervousness or anxiety? There's a difference.

Does "Guy" mean something here?

In the meantime, if it's nervousness, what's wrong with that? The prospect of surgery and all that goes with it is nervous-making. As the first gynecologist I ever saw said when I was on the table and began to feel around with my feet to find the stirrups: "If your knees feel like shaking, let them shake." He had the wisdom to say it as he turned away to get the speculum and give me the moment's privacy.

If it's anxiety, what do you usually do to combat it?

Keep yourself occupied. Get to the closet you were going to organize last winter. My closets are available for your organizing pleasure. Leave some tasks for the few days before surgery, e.g., shopping for some things you'll need for the first couple of weeks post-surgery. In the morning before you leave for the hospital, change the sheets. It's another busy task and you'll have a fresh, crisp bed if you want a nap when you get home.

If your surgery practice will have a support group meeting before your date, go in and talk with people. Check with practices at other area hospitals, too. They usually welcome all patients.

You'll be fine.

Edited January 3, 2016 by WLSResources/ClothingExch

panteramack · January 3, 2016

I combat anxiety with a variety of tools, but I'm always interested in learning new coping skills. Some of the things you mentioned are great ideas. I do have a closet that I really should organize lol. Also, I'm great at keeping myself busy. Between my job, my totally cool autistic 19yo son, my daughter, and my granddaughter, I'm busy! I take time for me whenever I can, and I usually curl up and read when I do.

I agree with you- there's nothing wrong with being anxious right now. Thank you for giving me a couple more ideas on how to handle it!

PS I'd love to come organize your closet :-)

Edited January 3, 2016 by panteramack