Anxiety/panic mode over fears of going to sleep during surgery

I am having general surgery, tomorrow to have gallbladder removed. I have a really big fear of being put to sleep and not waking up. I dislike that feeling. I'm in panic mode, right now. No one will be with me at hospital outpatient unit, til after my surgery. The outpatient unit nurses really know me well from last time I had surgery for umbilical repair. And I flipped out on them cause I was so scared. I shouldnt be so scared. Im 52 years old with a few medical problems. Any suggestions on how to relax, tonight, and get out of panic mode? Thanks.

Hi Calliecati and welcome!

I am sorry that you are feeling frightened about your surgery tomorrow. It is understandable...there are a lot of 'what ifs' going on in your head...and if that isn't bad enough, then the information that they give you beforehand is pretty intimidating...but the good new is that you have gone through this already, right? I am assuming that everything went well? Having surgery is never fun, but at least you know that your body tolerates the general anesthesia, and that should give you some comfort.

Here are a couple of tricks to help you out of panic mode:

Try envisioning a positive outcome. Whenever worry tries to take over, close your eyes and imagine the surgery having been a complete success...you are feeling good, everything went smoothly, and you are now going to recover easily, and feel better for having the procedure done! Just thinking these thoughts changes the chemistry in the brain, and can banish some of the stress hormones that perpetuate negative/fearful thinking.

Try a positive mantra. Repeat something calming and comforting over and over to yourself. Maybe..."I have had surgery before and I came through it no problem...this time will be fine as well.' The words that we tell ourselves have power for good or bad...why not repeat some positive words to help you yourself feel better? It really does work believe it or not.

I hope that I did not see your post too late for you to read it before you go to sleep! If so, then I wish you a successful surgery, speedy recovery, and invite you to post with us anytime you need support.:)

Best wishes!

Scaredy Cat

I usually post in the GERD forum but I suffer from anxiety also and read your post. I also fear not waking up from surgery. I also fear waking up in the middle of surgery. I just had an endoscopy procedure where they sedate you but you are not completely out and I was so scared that I had myself in panic mode. I am a therapist so I know all the techniques to use and my anxiety is under control MOST times. But when it comes to surgery/procedures I lose it. I think it is the loss of control and fear of death.

Calliecatie, do you have an update?

S.C.