Emotional wellbeing
Facing surgery can be a worrying time and can raise questions, doubts and uncertainties. The lead up to surgery is a good time to address your concerns.
People who prepare physically and mentally for surgery have fewer complications, less pain and recover more quickly than those who don’t.
Surgery has an emotional impact and can be stressful. Managing stress can improve your ability to understand information, cope with uncertainty and manage pain. There are a range of ways that you can manage your stress such as seeking information from a trusted source (your GP, treating clinician), using relaxation techniques, and practicing meditation and mindfulness.
Improving your general health and activity, and reducing your use of alcohol and other drugs can also improve your ability to cope with hospitalisation and promote recovery after surgery.
Coping with illness and hospital
Mindfulness and relaxation
Online programs and courses
This page was last updated 29 January, 2025
Related links
Activity and exercise
Exercise advice is available through various health professionals including Physiotherapists and Accredited Exercise Physiologists.
ViewAnaemia and low iron
3 in 10 people having elective surgery have low iron or anaemia and have high risk of needing blood transfusion.
ViewAlcohol, drugs and medication management
Alcohol, recreational drugs and chronic pain medication (opioids) can affect your safety during surgery, as well as pain levels and ability to recover well after surgery.
ViewDiabetes management
Getting support to assist you in managing your diabetes before surgery can help prevent complications such as infections and delayed wound healing.
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