How to Reduce Waiting-Time Anxiety – Tips

With the median wait time from referral to treatment now at 11.3 weeks,[1] many people face a long period where surgery can weigh on their mind.

Pre-operation anxiety is something lots of people deal with. Common worries include feeling pain, having an anaesthetic and how long recovery will take.[2]

These feelings are normal – having surgery is a big moment in your life and something that it’s natural to feel anxious about.

Taking steps to prepare yourself in advance can help you feel more in control and may even lead to a smoother recovery.[3]

There are many techniques which you can use to help you relax and manage your anxiety before heading to hospital. It may be a case of trying a few things and doing what works best for you.

An important first step is to notice the feelings you are having.[4]

Experts say reflecting on your feelings in the run up to surgery can be helpful and even by simply naming your feelings and experiences you can help relieve them.[5]

Also, understanding what’s happening in the body when you feel anxious can help.[6]

When you’re worried the body goes into ‘fight or flight’ mode which makes us alert but if you focus on relaxing tense muscles, it sends a chemical signal to the brain saying: ‘I am safe’, and you may start to feel calmer.[7]

During the wait it is also a good idea to focus on the things you can control.[8]

This includes eating healthily, being as active as possible and getting good regular sleep.[9]

Research shows that regular exercise before surgery may improve recovery time and reduce the risk of complications.[10]

For some people, reducing uncertainty around timing can also ease anxiety.

HMCA’s private medical plans can offer quicker access to consultations and treatment, helping to minimise long waiting periods and giving you more control over when and where your procedure takes place.

Reducing waiting times doesn’t just benefit your physical health—it can also significantly ease the mental strain that uncertainty often brings.

Even with faster access to treatment, it’s still natural to feel anxious. It can help to remind yourself that you are in safe hands with experienced medical professionals, and to focus on why you are having the procedure, to improve your quality of life.

Find out how HMCA can give peace of mind by calling HMCA’s friendly team today.

Phone 01423 799949 or visit hmca.co.uk/private-medical-plans

Waiting for Surgery Top Tips

• Share your worries: Talking to friends or family can make concerns feel more manageable..[11]
• Stay active: Regular exercise strengthens your body and helps support recovery.[12]
• Eat well: Choose a balanced diet with protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.[13]
• Practice relaxation: Meditation, mindfulness, or breathing exercises can reduce stress.[14]
• Limit alcohol: Reducing alcohol intake may help your body cope better with surgery.[15]
• Focus on the benefits: Visualise how you’ll feel after recovery and improved symptoms.[16]
• Learn about your procedure: Understanding what to expect can ease uncertainty.[17]
• Acknowledge your feelings: Simply recognising your emotions can help reduce anxiety.[18]

📌 This content is for illustrative purposes only. Please speak to a medical professional to discuss any concerns or specific circumstances.

[1] NHS average waiting time at lowest level since 2021

[2] How to cope with pre-surgery anxiety – BHF

[3] Mental wellbeing | Centre for Perioperative Care

[4] How to cope with pre-surgery anxiety – BHF

[5] See above

[6] See above

[7] See above

[8] See above

[9] Mental wellbeing | Centre for Perioperative Care

[10] Waiting well – waiting for surgery – University Hospital Southampton

[11] How to cope with pre-surgery anxiety – BHF

[12] Get in shape for surgery: 5 ways to have the best chance of recovery – BHF

[13] Get in shape for surgery: 5 ways to have the best chance of recovery – BHF

[14] Waiting well – waiting for surgery – University Hospital Southampton

[15] Waiting well – waiting for surgery – University Hospital Southampton

[16] How to cope with pre-surgery anxiety – BHF

[17] How to cope with pre-surgery anxiety – BHF

[18] How to cope with pre-surgery anxiety – BHF