Postoperative depression is a common occurrence for some individuals after undergoing surgery. Depression causes lasting feelings of anxiety, despondency and sadness.
According to the research, it has been ascertained that lack of a support system, financial difficulties, physical discomfort and many more could make one susceptible to developing depression following an operation.
The number of people who suffer from post-surgery depression is hard to come by. The statistics vary depending on the type of surgery but approximately 13% to 47% of persons who have undergone the said operation experience it.
Read on to find out why people may develop depression after surgery, what are its symptoms and how you can get support.
What is Post-Surgery Depression?
Post-surgery depression refers to a mood disorder that can occur after a surgical procedure. It involves feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities previously enjoyed.
This type of depression can be triggered by the stress of the surgery, changes in body image, pain, medication side effects, or underlying health conditions.
Is Depression a Side Effect of Surgery?
Depression after surgery is often overlooked, yet it’s a common side effect, much like pain and soreness. Physical limitations post-surgery can trigger feelings of despair, compounded by the reliance on others for assistance, which can make individuals feel burdensome.
Surgery is taxing on the body, and recovery takes time. Even after physical recovery, emotional healing may lag behind.
Anxiety and fear related to the surgery can also contribute to these feelings, underscoring the importance of open communication with medical professionals.
Symptoms of Post-Surgery Depression:
It’s common to feel intense emotions following an operation. Nevertheless, post-surgical depression is perpetual and persists beyond two weeks. If not treated, post-surgical depressive disorder can last for months. It is also possible for despair to linger on even when one has successfully undergone surgical treatment and recuperated fully.
Signs of post-surgery depression resemble other forms of depression. These symptoms might include:
- An overall sense of hopelessness
- Anxiety
- Changes in appetite and sleep patterns
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering
- Irritability
- Loss of interest in activities
- Sadness
It’s crucial to remember that not all patients will have every one of these symptoms, and that the degree of seriousness varies among individuals. In case you or any other person is manifesting post-operative depression signs it is important to seek help from a health care provider who will guide through.
Some available treatments which could be recommended by them include drugs alone, psychotherapy alone and also both in combination.
Causes of Post-Surgery Depression:
Post-surgical depression has many underlying causes. While some surgeries are riskier than others, any procedure can cause depression.
Research has discovered that risk factors for post-surgery depression may include:
1. Physical discomfort and pain: Surgery often involves physical discomfort and pain during the recovery period. Chronic pain or discomfort can lead to feelings of frustration, helplessness, and sadness, contributing to depression.
2. Changes in Body Image: Some surgeries may result in changes to a person’s appearance or body function, which can lead to dissatisfaction with body image. This dissatisfaction can trigger feelings of depression, particularly if the changes are significant or permanent.
3. Recovery Time: The recovery period after surgery can be lengthy and may involve restrictions on physical activity and daily routines. Being unable to engage in usual activities or feeling dependent on others for assistance can lead to feelings of isolation, boredom, and frustration, which may contribute to depression.
4. Medication Side Effects: Medications prescribed during the recovery period may have side effects, including mood changes or feelings of lethargy. These side effects can exacerbate feelings of depression or contribute to emotional instability.
5. Fear of Recurrence or Complications: Some individuals may experience anxiety or fear about the possibility of the surgical condition recurring or complications arising from the surgery. This fear can be overwhelming and may contribute to feelings of depression, especially if the individual feels uncertain about their future health.
6. Loss of Independence: Surgery often requires individuals to rely on others for assistance with daily tasks, leading to a loss of independence. This loss of control over one’s life and reliance on others can be emotionally challenging and may contribute to feelings of depression.
7. Pre-existing Mental Health Conditions: Individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, may be more susceptible to experiencing post-surgery depression. The stress of surgery and the physical and emotional challenges of recovery can exacerbate existing mental health issues.
8. Changes in Hormone Levels: Surgery and anesthesia can disrupt hormone levels in the body, which may affect mood regulation and contribute to feelings of depression.
Recovery Techniques:
Recovery from surgery and its effects can be very different for each person and even across procedures. Consequently, talk to a healthcare expert on the length of your healing period so that you are aware. If you are in India after orthopedic surgery, one could find the best ACL surgeon in Jaipur. These experts will make certain that your health improves swiftly.
1. Seek Professional Help: If you’re feeling sad or down after surgery, it’s important to talk to someone who can help, like a counselor or therapist. They’re trained to listen and provide support. They might suggest different ways to feel better, like talking about your feelings or trying activities that make you happy. Getting help from a professional can make a big difference in how you feel.
2. Medication: Sometimes, orthopedic doctors may prescribe medicine to help with post-surgery depression. These medicines, like antidepressants, can assist in reducing symptoms. They work by affecting chemicals in the brain linked to mood. If your doctor suggests medication, it’s essential to take it as prescribed and communicate any concerns or side effects. Medicine, along with other support methods, can aid in your recovery journey.
3. Join Support Groups: Joining a support group means being part of a community of people who have gone through similar surgeries. In these groups, you can share your experiences and feelings with others who understand what you’re going through. Being in a support group can make you feel less alone and more supported, which can help you cope better with your post-surgery feelings.
4. Stay Connected with Family and Friends: Staying connected with friends and family means talking and spending time with them. It’s important because they can give you love and support. When you feel sad or worried after surgery, they can listen to you and help you feel better. You can call them, send messages, or visit them. Being around people who care about you can make you feel less alone and more hopeful.
5. Focus on Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle: To lead a healthy life, one must eat healthy food, exercise and sleep well. When you consume fruits, vegetables and other wholesome foods, your body will heal faster and feel better soon enough. Try practicing exercises such as walking or stretching that would make you happier and reduce stress. In addition, getting enough sleep is important for the recovery of your body. This means that to feel better after any surgery, one has to take appropriate nutrition, do exercises to keep them active and get enough rest.
6. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Try calming techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to feel better. Deep breathing means taking slow, deep breaths to relax. Meditation is when you sit quietly and focus your mind, which can help calm your thoughts. Yoga involves gentle exercises and stretches that can help your body and mind relax. These activities can help reduce stress and make you feel more peaceful and happier after surgery.
7. Engage in Activities You Enjoy: Engaging in activities you enjoy can lift your mood. Doing things like hobbies or spending time outdoors can make you feel happy. It’s important to make time for activities that bring you joy. Whether you like drawing, playing games, or being outside, doing what you love can help you feel better. So, try to do things that make you happy every day.
Also Read: Shoulder Pain & Finding the Best Solutions in Jaipur
