I think all T can do genuinely in that moment is to validate the intense fear. I'm not sure what the surgery is, or what it's for, but all surgery is very scary - and does sometimes make us face our mortality.

I wish I could reach out and give you a hug. There is nothing one can say to make the anxiety completely disappear.

But in moments like this we are trained that when emotions feel so escalated, to try to re-engage the logical part of the mind. Yes surgery is scary (validate the feeling) but they will take every precaution to ensure you are safe during surgery (logic).

Can you talk to the team on the surgery about your anxiety? Ask what to do to psychologically prepare for the proceedure to decrease your anxiety.

I feel for you. I have had surgeries and they scare me as well, no matter how much logic one presents. I'm sending you lots of hugs and positive thoughts. Thinking of you.