Dealing with fear of surgery

Fear of surgery is also known as surgical anxiety. If you are about to have surgery, and feel extremely anxious, then an important step in dealing with your surgical anxiety is to arm yourself with information.

Become as well informed as possible regarding

your illness
the prescribed therapies
the specifics of the surgical procedure
The low risks of anaesthesia

For many, anxiety over surgery is a normal response to being expected to make a life altering decision with minimal information. Anxiety may also be a by product of financial concerns. Therefore, once you are armed with information you will feel less anxious.

It is your right to obtain the necessary facts. Ask your doctors questions, read, speak to others who have had the same procedure and do your own research. Find out about your options for sick leave and health insurance and empower yourself to make financially viable choices.

If anxiety persists, even with a full understanding of what is realistic during and after the procedure, counselling may be necessary. Counselling will help you cope with the changes that will occur after surgery.

Counselling will help you if you are having surgery for life threatening illness, such as cancer. Being able to discuss concerns openly with someone who is not directly involved can be very therapeutic. Friends and family members cannot be objective and, anyway, you may not want to burden them with your fears.

Counselling will also help you if you have had a previous bad experience with a surgery or healthcare provider. Facing your specific fears with a concerned, qualified health professional will go a long way to helping you manage your anxiety and obtaining the surgery that is vital for your health.

If you find you are struggling with surgical anxiety, our team at Masterpiece Psychology (former Anxiety Solutions CBT Psychology Practice) is here to help. We offer a range of options including group and individual therapy. Contact us or call us 02 9328 5899 now to learn more and book an appointment with one of our warm, empathetic and experienced practitioners.

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Meet Renee

Renee Mill

Renee Mill is the director and principal clinical psychologist at Masterpiece Psychology. With over 30 years of experience, she specialises in anxiety management and has developed innovative techniques for various anxiety disorders. Renee is also a best-selling author, international speaker, and parenting skills trainer.

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