Possible depression facing knee surgery?!
Question: I'm going to be having ACL, Meniscus and Chondroplasty on my knee in a little over a week. I'm afraid I'm sliding into depression because I won't be able to be as active as I am normally. (I teach group fitness at the gym 5 - 6 days a week plus work out extra time around that.) I'm also worried about the amount of time I'll be stuck not being able to drive (the surgery is on my right knee) because I hate having to depend on others to do things for me.
I know this may sound silly - and I know I over think things; but do any of you think this might be serious enough to get counseling help for or should I just see how things are once my surgery is completed?
Answers: I'm going to be having ACL, Meniscus and Chondroplasty on my knee in a little over a week. I'm afraid I'm sliding into depression because I won't be able to be as active as I am normally. (I teach group fitness at the gym 5 - 6 days a week plus work out extra time around that.) I'm also worried about the amount of time I'll be stuck not being able to drive (the surgery is on my right knee) because I hate having to depend on others to do things for me.
I know this may sound silly - and I know I over think things; but do any of you think this might be serious enough to get counseling help for or should I just see how things are once my surgery is completed?
It is perfectly normal to feel anxiety over an oncoming surgery. You very well might get depressed afterwards too. It happens with alot of people. I've had 4 knee surgeries and I often felt depressed when I couldn't get around well or do much. You just have to keep telling yourself that this is only temporary. You will get better!!! If you are feeling really depressed, talk to your doctor, he/she might be able to help. Also talk with your family/friends; knowing that you have someone to talk to often helps. Good luck with your surgery!!!
It is very common to have body disturbance and dependence issues with any health issue.
Recognizing it is the first step
Yes you should talk to a counselor about your fears
good luck
Having suffered from knee problems following an RTA in which I had both legs broken (among others) I sympathise, but look upon this time as a break from your busy life allowing you to take a re-stock of your situation.
Sounds like you just need a change of prospective. You sound like a very strong independent person. Those are great qualities to have, but it's also nice to have the ability to let others help you. If you have good friends and family that are willing to help you, then look at it as time to spend with them and appreciating the fact that you have people who love you and are willing to help... the first sign of being a good friend is having good friends. And as far as not being able to be active, I can understand that would be frustrating... but look at it as being able to take a break. If you're usually a very outgoing active person most of the time then there's nothing wrong with taking a breather -even a forced one. Fight the temptation to feel lazy, and remind yourself that it's okay to take a break and relax. Think of things that you can still do... even some pampering you can do around your house. Take advantage of this time. Hope that helps.