down time...

[sandrann]

Hi there everyone..I've been debating on whether to post this or not for the past 3 weeks as I don't want to sound maudling or negative as positivity is paramount after a CABG..and I know it's my responsibility to see my GP..but in order to save both hers and my time I thought I would ask if anyone else has experienced down time after surgery..it's now 5 and half months since having the cardio version I had 3 days after the CABG and I thought life was good but lately been very low and sleeping lots during the day..has this happened to any of you and what did you do to bring back the joy of life? Apologies for this post not being upbeat.

[skid112 Heart Star]

Hi Sandrann, yes it happens to a lot of us. Most would say a normal reaction, as one who has suffered and continues to suffer it's very tough to get through. Please go and speak to your GP, get a referral for some counselling. Have you been through rehab, some offer counselling services through that. You're not alone and there is help available, plenty of threads on here, sad to say, offering more insights and help and doubtless our lovely members will be along soon to offer their own experiences and advice

Take care

Mark

[sandrann in reply to skid112]

Thank you for your encouraging reply Mark..I've taken on board what you've suggested..thank you x

[Marc68]

Hi Sandrann. As Mark has said, it happens to a lot of us. I keep myself busy when it happens to me. When your mind is focused on doing something (work, play, it doesn't matter) it doesn't have time to focus on the negative and eventually it'll fade. A good walk in the countryside is perfect as exercise is good for you, releases endorphins that fight depression and a peaceful setting has that "feel good" factor... win, win, win.

Think of what you plan to do the following day, put your alarm on, get up and do it. Knowing that you have something to do sort of occupies a part of your mind positively whereas not having a plan and seemingly having nothing to get up for just feeds off itself and drags you down deeper. If you're sleeping because of physical tiredness then fair enough but if you're sleeping in the day because of the mental side of things it just makes things worse.

Not sure if I explained that very well but it could be thought of as a very mild/basic form of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).

Take care.

[sandrann]

Thank you Marc, much appreciated.x

[Helen_BHF]

Hi sandrann - glad you decided to post, that's what the community is for! I hope things improve soon. Is there anything you really love to do? I would say try not to forget the things that bring you some joy, even if it's just watching your favourite movie. That's just something I know that works for me. Happy Friday

[sandrann in reply to Helen_BHF]

Thank you for your reply Helen x