Retinal detachment, a major cause of acute vision loss, constitutes a serious ophthalmic emergency and necessitates prompt treatment by a vitreoretinal surgeon, particularly in cases where the macula is still attached [1]. Worldwide estimates range from 9,62 per 100,000 population with the highest prevalence of detachment occurring in Europe, followed by Asia and the Americas (ibid). Myopia, a known risk factor for retinal detachment, has been on the rise since the early 2000’s and is estimated to continue to increase with aging populations [2]; some studies suggest that incidents of retinal detachment have also increased since the COVID-19 pandemic [1], suggesting a need to develop systemic protocols to address the psychological impact of ophthalmic emergencies on patients. Psychological literature on the subject is sparse, and anecdotal evidence suggests that the perceptual disturbances associated with retinal detachment itself, acuity of the condition, its emergent treatment, and the pre, peri and post-operative recovery, including head positioning, lift restrictions, ongoing limitations related to recovery, potential complications and repeat procedures, generate substantial distress. The authors, all of whom have experienced retinal detachment, have compiled this manuscript as autoethnography to document using our mental health toolkit as trained professionals to address coping with considerable distress associated with this medical condition. The authors propose utilizing strategies to mitigate emotional distress experienced by patients in the pre-, peri and post-operative recovery treatment to reduce anxiety and improve treatment adherence and outcomes. Additional recommendations for retinal surgeons and ophthalmologists include transparent education about surgical procedures and the recovery process, with guidance on how to prepare and manage physically and emotionally post-operatively.