This article was co-authored by Peggy Rios, PhD and by wikiHow staff writer, Jessica Gibson. Dr. Peggy Rios is a Counseling Psychologist based in Florida. With over 24 years of experience, Dr. Rios works with people struggling with psychological symptoms such as anxiety and depression. She specializes in medical psychology, weaving together behavioral health programs informed by empowerment theory and trauma treatment. Dr. Rios uses integrated, evidence-based models to provide support and therapy for people with life-altering medical conditions. She holds an MS and Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Maryland. Dr. Rios is a licensed psychologist in the state of Florida.
There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.
This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources.
This article has been viewed 574,248 times.
You want to reach out to someone before their surgery, but finding the right words can be difficult. Whether you're calling, texting, or sending a card, a little positive encouragement can really make the person feel supported. In this article, we'll give you thoughtful phrases that someone going through surgery is sure to appreciate.
Steps
Sample Texts and Letters to Send Before and After Surgery
Community Q&A
-
QuestionWhat if I don't want them to get better?Lucy (parabola) BoyterCommunity AnswerYou should still be respectful because with their surgery they would have gone though a lot. You can send them a neutral text message "I heard you were not well", or mail them a letter and get them a small gift.
-
QuestionWhat kind of surgery is life-threatening?Community AnswerMany can be. For example, heart surgery, brain surgery or cancer surgery.
-
QuestionWhat if they have brain damage and can't remember me?Community AnswerBe kind. Introduce yourself and start bonding all over again!
Tips
Expert Interview
Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about pre-surgery support, check out our in-depth interview with Peggy Rios, PhD.
References
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3513261/
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/healing-together/201912/how-help-someone-you-love-calm-down
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/changepower/201605/the-9-superpowers-your-smile
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/the-magic-human-connection/201604/boosting-someones-confidence-in-5-steps
- ↑ https://positivepsychology.com/gratitude-messages-letters-lists/
- ↑ https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/emotional-health/the-best-and-worst-ways-to-support-a-friend-with-a-serious-illness
- ↑ https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/09/ce-corner-surgery
- ↑ https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/trauma-helping-family-or-friends
- ↑ https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/5-benefits-of-healthy-relationships