Our bodies are delicate. Despite the wonders of the human being, our physical components are prone to breaking down every now and again. While a healthy lifestyle, exercise and proper diet may allow us to stave off most ailments, stress, ageing and genetic disorders can sometimes mean that we require the help of a surgeon to address and repair any problems that might arise. But how do we deal with the stresses and trauma that invasive surgery causes to our minds? Hypnotherapy can be an effective, comfortable tool that allows us to prepare for surgery effectively.

Surgery – Unpleasant, but Necessary

The last thing that anybody wants to hear from their doctor are the words: “You’re going to need surgery.” For most people, the thought of surgery conjures up images of scalpel blades, heart monitors and operating tables. But the marvels of modern medicine means that sometimes surgery is a necessary concession that may even save your life. From mending a pesky tooth to replacing a heart, around the world, everyday people owe their lives and happiness to successful surgery.

Surgery Is Stressful

However, many people struggle terribly with the fear and stress caused by an impending surgical procedure even when this may lead to a better life. Despite the overwhelming rates of success, we often hear stories of fatal emergencies arising during operations, while the thought of somebody cutting into your body is no pleasant concept. After all, we’re placing our lives into the hands of healthcare professionals whom we might not know very well.

Why Surgery is so Tough

So how do we manage the pressure that we face in the run-up to that all-important procedure? While doctors do their best to explain the intricacies of an operation, more often than not, we’re clueless as to the real risks and details about what it is that they’re going to be doing. All we can hope for is that everything goes well, and we awake to the news that we’re going to be OK.

Many patients will subsequently begin to develop high levels of stress and anxiety, fearing the worst as the surgery date draws near. During this period, it is critical that we try to maintain a positive state of mind. Doing so has been proven to prepare the body for the challenges ahead and assist dramatically in the post-operative recovery period. As we prepare for surgery, the anxiety associated with the procedure causes the brain to release the stress hormone cortisol, which comes in response to our autonomic nervous systems triggering the ‘fight or flight’ mechanism. This inevitably causes more fear, stress and anxiety.

Preoperative Hypnosis – The Surgeons’ Choice

Preoperative hypnosis is a technique used by hypnotherapists on their patients to assist them in their journey towards surgery itself. Through positive affirmations and relaxation methods, therapists work to introduce a sense of calm into the thoughts associated with the surgical procedure. Sessions are administered right up to the date of the surgery, and studies have shown that preoperative hypnosis not only primes the unconscious to relax the body during surgery (boosting the chances of a successful surgery), but also assists in speeding up recovery after the procedure has been completed. Preoperative hypnotherapy is safe, painless and offers a litany of benefits to both the patient and their surgeon.

Endless Benefits

As a result of preoperative hypnotherapy, the need for additional medications diminishes, saving hospital costs and lowering anxiety both before and after the operation. At Hypnocare, therapists are not only well versed in assisting people in dealing with the stress of an upcoming surgery, but some have even put theses hypnosis techniques to work for themselves, experiencing the benefits of preoperative hypnosis first-hand.

So, for those struggling to come to terms with the stress, fear and anxiety that comes with waiting for surgery, know that Hypnocare is here to assist you in preparation for the big day.