Coping with Anxiety Before Prostate Surgery: Seeking Advice and Experiences

Like any other anxiety it’s primary about managing the intrusive and typically negative or unpleasant thoughts which trigger anxiety. I used meditation workouts journaling and confiding in a few trusted friends but I will tell you don’t count on people to be there always that’s why the more you have in your own toolbox to manage the anxiety the easier it will be. I opted for radiation therapy and I’m glad I did too many why if scenarios with the surgery for me but for you it may be the best option

Thanks for your thoughts. I’ll try the meditation, not much for writing down my thoughts but maybe I’ll give it a try.

https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/articles/cancer-anxiety/?utm_source=outcomes4me&utm_medium=partnership&utm_content=tsblog

Kim- Journaling is very therapeutic

I have never done that before, ill give it a try. There is a how are you feeling log within this app. Thanks for your advice Charlie

I had the same procedure about 6 months ago. Best suggestion I can make for pre-surgery anxiety and post surgery outcomes is to get or stay on an exercise plan. I have been doing so to lose weight over the last few years but to do something that tired me out and kept me in good shape has made physically getting through it all a bit easier I think. After my surgery I learned about a term - prehabilitation. I found I was doing it after the fact, and was simply lucky I did it, but it did seem to help me. Post surgery is a multifaceted subject, but the best suggestion is patience. It simply takes time, but progress does happen. I’ve learned the body is an absolute wonder. I’m happy to answer further specifics if you’d like.

Another quick thought. Speaking to those who have been through the procedure was the most helpful for me

Try to get in the most optimal physical condition possible it will help in your post op recovery and back to routine activities

Great advice Steve. Kim, I elected for radiation treatment but my brother in-law elected a prostatectomy. Like Steve said, pre and post surgery daily exercises (walking or jogging, strength training, ect.) worked for him. And also worked and continues to work for me reference to anxiety and pre/post radiation. I would also suggest a healthy diet (as healthy as you can handle🙂)...works for me and my brother in-law. Wishing you the best moving forward.

I agree 109% with Gerry S above - clean diet look into the Mediterranean diet plan, cardio, strength and mobility training. My routine is cross training swimming, boxing gym (no contact anymore too old for that) tennis, Aikido martial arts and yoga All in combination have me in great shape and it also help’s psycho emotionally as well. Kind regards to all here Charlie

I meant 100% can’t type to save my life

I'll take the extra 9%...😄

I thank all of you for the advice. So far i have been dieting, i am feeling great . Been reaching out to others, getting confidence on my outcome. Going to start jotting down my journey.

Great Kim...you are certainly not alone in your journey. Wishing you success 🙌

Best of luck Kim!!!

Thanks Steve I still have 3 weeks until my surgery, waiting now is the hardest part

I certainly understand. Just think of it as training for an athletic event. Lots of people here wishing for your success.

Kim, any updates now, post surgery? Hope all went well and continues. My surgery was 10/16/2023. Im 22 months post openly. My advice: Remain on these forums ( theses many more) research any questions you have, journal or copy links from your research, share all info with your partner, DO YOUR KEGELS!!! or any other pelvic floor physical therapy for both continence, as well as erectile function exercise. You will see many sites referring to atrophy if not used, so use it, stretch it, get blood flowing to it...OFTEN. best of luck for speedy and full recovery

Pre-surgery anxiety is completely natural, and many community members find it helpful to focus on practical preparation like arranging support for recovery and discussing concerns with their surgical team. Connecting with others who have been through similar experiences can provide valuable insights and reassurance during this waiting period.

Kim how are you doing

I apologize for the silence. My surgery and recovery went well. The pathology report from the removed prostate showed the gleason score higher than the original. They removed 12 lymphnodes and one had cancer cells. I had an ultra sensitive psa test 6 weeks post op and it came back undetectable. I am blessed to have caught this early otherwise my outcome may not be so positive. I am still dealing with the side affects. I am having incontinance issues. I am doing kegle exercises and it is now starting to sign of improvement.