Is it normal to experience certain emotions after a surgery?
April 30, 2023 | 60,00 EUR | answered by Jürgen Dietrich
Dear Doctor,
My name is Christine Weinert and I recently underwent surgery. I have noticed that since then, I have been experiencing certain emotions that are unsettling to me. Is it normal to have such feelings after surgery?
The operation I underwent was successful, and I am on the path to recovery. However, I have been feeling anxious, sad, or irritable since then. Sometimes I also feel a sense of emptiness or despondency. I feel that these emotions are strongly influenced by my surgery, as I did not experience such strong feelings before.
These emotions are weighing on me and making it difficult for me to focus on my recovery. I am concerned that something is not right or that I could develop postoperative depression. Are there specific measures I can take to cope with these emotions? Is it advisable to seek professional help?
I would like to learn more about whether these emotions are a normal part of the recovery process and if they will diminish over time. Could it also be that certain medications or complications during the surgery are affecting my emotions? Are there ways in which I can actively contribute to supporting my mental health during the recovery process?
Thank you in advance for your help and advice.
Sincerely,
Christine Weinert
Dear Christine Weinert,
I am sorry to hear that you are struggling with such emotions after your operation. It is important to understand that it is quite normal to experience different feelings such as anxiety, sadness, irritability, or depression after an operation. The body has undergone a great deal of stress, and psychologically, an operation can be a significant challenge. So, it is understandable that you are experiencing these emotions.
It is important to realize that these feelings occur as part of the healing process and can fade with time. It may be that certain medications you took during or after the operation are influencing your emotions. However, if you continue to feel heavily burdened and if these emotions are affecting your daily life, it is advisable to seek professional help.
One way to deal with these emotions is to give yourself time and not put too much pressure on yourself. Take time for rest and relaxation, nurture social contacts, and engage in activities that bring you joy. It may also be helpful to talk to your loved ones about your feelings or seek guidance from a psychological counseling center.
It is important to take care of your mental health and actively contribute to supporting it. Regular exercise, healthy eating, sufficient sleep, and relaxation can help improve your well-being. If you feel that the emotions are not fading on their own or are even worsening, do not hesitate to seek professional help. A psychologist or psychiatrist can help you understand your emotions and find ways to cope with them.
I hope that my response is helpful to you and encourages you to take care of your mental health. If you have any further questions or need support, I am here to help.
Sincerely,
Jürgen Dietrich
