We all have a fear of, or at least a healthy respect for, the unknown. Whether you’re getting ready for your weight loss surgery or you are recuperating at home, a little anxiety can be expected. But, anxiety equals stress, and stress can compromise your ability to heal.
Your body has a physical reaction when you feel stress, anxiousness or fear. Adrenaline and cortisol levels increase. This affects your sleep patterns and raises your heart rate and blood pressure. This, in turn, affects your immune system and your body’s ability to recover from surgery.
There are some proven, simple steps you can take to better handle anxiety before and after a medical procedure. The next time you are feeling a little anxious about your weight loss journey, do what I do and take a moment to put some of these ideas into practice:
- Do your homework. Knowing in advance what to expect both before and after surgery eliminates the anxiety associated with fearing the unknown. Researching your surgery in advance can also help you make advance preparations to help you recover best at home.
- Condition your mind. When you begin to feel anxious, begin thinking about the benefits surgery will bring to your life. Norman Vincent Peale was right; there is power in thinking positive thoughts.
- Learn to breathe deeply. Respiration is how your body takes in oxygen, and oxygen is one of the most important elements your body requires to function well. Take 10 slow, deep breaths several times a day, filling your torso from your belly to your chest. You’ll calm yourself, and you’ll supply your brain and blood with life-giving oxygen.
If we can help alleviate your stress by answering your questions, please contact us. Our intent is for your pre- and post-operative experience to be as free from anxiety as possible.