Caring for Your
Mental Health After Outpatient Surgery

Recovering from surgery isn’t just about your body — it’s normal for your mind to need care, too.

Outpatient recovery can feel especially challenging because you’re managing everything at home. You may feel tired, anxious, frustrated, or overwhelmed — all on top of the pain and discomfort from your procedure. Anesthesia and medication changes can also affect your mood.

As you’re taking care of your body, remember to care for your mental health, too. And remember, you aren’t alone in your recovery.

Prioritize sleep

Poor sleep can worsen anxiety or depression. After surgery, prioritize getting good sleep. Go to bed at the same time each night, and put away screens (like phones and tablets) about an hour before bedtime.

If pain, medications, and stress make it hard to sleep, try the relaxation and pain management tips on page 11. If you are still struggling to sleep, reach out to your care team for help. 

Learn about your condition

Feeling unsure about how to care for yourself after surgery can add stress. Before leaving the hospital, make sure you understand your care instructions, medications, follow-up appointments, and who to call if you have an emergency.

Keep all of this information in one place — like this guide — so it’s easy to find when you need it.

You may also consider joining an online or in-person support group for patients with your condition. Hearing from others who have been through a similar experience can help you feel supported and informed.

If at any time you find you cannot care for yourself at home, contact your care team right away. Many hospitals have social workers and patient advocates who can help you navigate your recovery.

Find Financial Resources

Costs from surgery, medications, or missed work can have a huge impact on your mental health. Talk to your employer about financial resources available to you during your recovery. You may also find services available from your state’s human services offices.

Ask your care team if your hospital has financial counselors who can help you. They may also be able to connect you with organizations that support patients with your specific health condition.

Ask for support

Caring for yourself after surgery while also managing your daily life can feel like a lot. Feeling anxious, sad, or frustrated is normal.

Asking someone to help with meals, errands, chores, or just listen can improve your mental health.

If your feelings become overwhelming, talk with someone you trust or a mental health professional.

Call your care team immediately if you notice:

• Persistent sadness, crying, or anxiety that doesn’t improve

• Inability to sleep for several nights in a row

• Feeling hopeless, very irritable, or overwhelmed

• Thoughts of harming yourself or feeling you can’t cope