Stress is a physical and emotional response to what we perceive as a threat.  When it occurs for a brief period, in response to an actual threat, it is helpful.  However, prolonged stress can lead to biological and psychological damage, so it is important to find ways to reduce the stress response.  Psychologists offer a range of treatments to help people to respond differently to the causes of stress and to prevent stress-related illness.

Reducing stress before surgery is known to speed up healing and recovery.  Brief psychological treatments for stress are available to people awaiting surgery.