When someone is experiencing anxiety after surgery, it should never be taken for granted. Unfortunately, many doctors or other health care providers fail to warn their patients about this risk.
Experiencing anxiety after surgery can be caused by factors like:
- chronic pain
- reactions to anesthesia
- reactions to pain medications
- facing one’s own mortality
- getting stressed out physically and emotionally about surgery
Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety after Surgery
The signs and symptoms are easy to overlook since many people believe they’re normal, but they’re not. Here are some of them.
- Too much sleep
- irritability
- loss of interest in activities
- fatigue
- loss of appetite
Medications and the aftereffects of surgery can cause similar manifestations to post operative anxiety. It’s highly recommended to see a doctor if you have emotional symptoms like hopelessness or loss of interest in activities. This may already be manifestations of depression.
Many people actually suffer from depression post op. If symptoms persist for more than two weeks, make an appointment with your doctor to talk about it.
Coping with Post operative Depression
Knowing what to do to manage post operative depression ahead of time is an important step.
See your doctor
See your doctor if you feel depressed. They may be able to prescribe medications that won’t disrupt your postoperative care.
Get outside
Some fresh air can help with depression. Going out of the house when possible can help reduce your episodes of mood swings but make sure that there’s no risk of infection at the place you’ll visit.
Focus on the positive side of life
Set positive and realistic goals and do celebrate your progress no matter how small it is. This will sure help you maintain a positive outlook in life.
Exercise
Engaging in exercise as much as you can. Just make sure to let your doctor know about this or ask suggestions on what kind of exercise you can do. Depending on your surgery, your doctor will come up with an exercise plan suitable for you.
How to Help Someone Experiencing Depression or Anxiety after Surgery
It’s essential to know the manifestations of anxiety or depression before your loved one undergoes a surgical procedure. But, you can help in several ways:
- Stay positive without trying to get rid of their feelings of sadness or grief.
- Let them express any frustrations they have.
- Encourage and promote healthy habits.
- Apply routines.
- Help them meet their doctor’s recommendations for exercise and diet.
- Celebrate every small milestone as each is significant.
If the patient’s physical condition starts to improve, the depression or anxiety may be alleviated as well.