My depression had improved a lot this year by changing to a more active lifestyle and changing jobs to be less isolated (among other things). But I had surgery for carpal and cubital tunnel and cannot work for a month. This is week 3 and my depression is getting worse from inactivity and isolation and physical pain. I am well enough to take walks but it is getting cold here. I finally started driving again so I can go to the gym as long as I don’t use my right arm-hand. So only leg work.
It is amazing how pain can make your depression so much worse. Add isolation and inactivity to that and I feel awful. I am also worried about finances with all this and want to look for a new job (for many reasons). But I haven’t done that yet because my depression is so bad.
It is so hard to take the next step when you are in a dark place. But, I did it once so I can do it again. I’m just not there yet.
I am in the same proverbial boat as you, although mine isn't surgery it might as well be. I have been down after straining my back in the process of moving, which came to a screeching halt, I'm secluded and because of the housing market the neighbors I knew are replaced by strangers. I too have pulled myself out of the head space I'm in before and I think together, we both can do it again. Call a friend and have a positive talk, you know the kind with giggles and laughter? Yeah we both should probably do that? I will try and let you know how I'm doing if you want to do the same. Hang in there, you're a beautiful soul 💜
Pain can make depression worse and depression can make pain worse. Being active is definitely a good thing, but you also need to take a look at what you were thinking that is making you feel depressed. I would recommend reading a good book cognitive behavioral therapy to get a better handle on how are your thoughts affect your mood and the interaction between thoughts, behavior, and mood.
I did not list the only things I have done to improve my depression (I simply said among other things), so this is already being covered and is not applicable. But I thank you for your time and concern.
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