Thanks to recent efforts, knowledge about post-partum depression has increased greatly in the past few years. The disease, which has frequently been overlooked or misdiagnosed, commonly occurs after a woman gives birth. Even more frequently overlooked is post-surgical depression, which occurs after a patient undergoes an operation.
A common occurrence after many surgical procedures, especially cardiac operations, post-surgical depression is frequently credited to the use of anesthesia. Symptoms include stress and anxiety as well as loss of appetite, and isolation. Pain and exhaustion, as well as physical discomfort or scarring that commonly occur after operations are also causes, as are the feeling of "let down" that commonly follows a major event.
While preparing for a surgery, patients often appear calm, telling themselves what to expect and how to manage. After leaving the hospital, however, PSD can be disorienting, causing the patient to wonder why he or she feels this way, now that the operation is over.
The most important thing to remember is that it is normal to feel this way. Tell your doctor what is happening. Share how you feel with your family and friends. While you may think you need to be alone, support is crucial during this time.
You are not the first person this has happened to. And remember, you are not going to feel this way forever.
Editor's note: if your depression lasts more than an appropriate period of time, you might want to seek the help of a professional. There are many solutions to depression including therapy and anti-depressants, but the primary goal is for you to find a way to make yourself feel better.
