Table 1 Definitions of Psychological perioperative treatments considered in this study

Cognitive-behavioural therapies

Psychosocial interventions aimed at identifying and challenging maladaptive thoughts, positively modifying feelings and behaviours, and thereby experiences; interventions may focus on the cognitive component or directly influence behavioural responses (Rolving et al. 2014).

Relaxation techniques

Physical and cognitive treatments (such as progressive muscle relaxation, simple relaxation, breathing practices, music relaxation) aimed at reducing sympathetic arousal, increasing the feeling of calm, and improving self-control (LaMontagne et al. 2003; Michie et al. 2008).

Mindfulness-based interventions

Psychological interventions inspired by religion-based practices of meditation and contemplation; these presuppose patient engagement in the relevant aspects of the present experience in a non-judgmental manner (Kaplan et al. 1993).

Coping strategies

Behavioural and psychological strategies employed to master, tolerate, reduce, or minimise stressful events.

Hypnosis

Cognitive-behavioural technique with no specific side effects used to encourage and evaluate responses to suggestions (Hızlı et al. 2015).

Narrative medicine

Medical approach that acknowledges the value of people’s narratives and individual stories, focusing on the relational and psychological dimensions that are implied in physical illness.