Weight loss surgery is a major operation requiring significant time to recover. And so patients plan ahead for physical recovery. But they tend to neglect the emotional and mental health aspects of recovery from weight loss surgery. Don’t underestimate the toll on your emotions and state-of-mind from post-surgical pain or being unable to eat. You can prepare for your upcoming recovery now by knowing what self-care tips to follow after discharge from the hospital.
Of course, it is important to be aware that these are just guidelines. And you should be following your surgeon’s advice when it comes to recovering from weight loss surgery.
Have a great support system in place
Try to have someone with you for as much time as possible in the first weeks of recovery from weight loss surgery. Alongside the pain from surgery, you’ll likely feel a whole plethora of emotions. These emotions can range from pure happiness and excitement to sadness and worry.
It can be very easy to let your emotions get the best of you in your post-surgical fragile state. And you may succumb to anxiety and depression. Having a healthy support network around you will help. So request that friends and family spend time with you or check in on you while you’re recovering from weight loss surgery. This will help you stay grounded, level-headed, and upbeat while you heal.
Drink plenty of water
You may experience constipation during the initial days of recovery while anesthesia is still in your system. Plus your digestive tract will be affected by the work done to your intestines. It takes weeks to fully heal and you may find it difficult to go to the bathroom normally.
You may avoid constipation if you remember to drink plenty of water during recovery. If you are still struggling, your surgeon or dietician will be able to give you advice on getting things moving.
Take the pain relief
You have just undergone major surgery – there are no medals awarded for being a hero. If given a pain reliever then take it as often as prescribed. There is no point in suffering unnecessarily. Some patients like to look at alternative methods of pain relief. Of course you need to check with your doctor or surgeon first, but you might send a friend or relative to seek out Harvest HOC once you are further down your road to recovery
Relax
In the first weeks of recovery from weight loss surgery you will not feel able to do much. And that is fine! Because when you are resting your body is recovering. Look at different ways to relax, such as reading, listening to audio books or podcasts, catching up on your favorite box set. Or find something else that you enjoy. Some people like to meditate or take up mindfulness activities. And these are great ways to focus your mind and help you to relax, particularly if you feel anxious or in pain.
Beating the blues during recovery from weight loss surgery
Recovery from weight loss surgery shouldn’t be taken lightly. It is a significant recovery period that requires planning and preparation. So I hope these self-care tips will have you beating the blues as you recover. And you are now aware of the importance of taking great care of yourself emotionally and mentally during recovery.
Don’t rush recovery and always follow your surgeon’s advice.
Living larger than ever,
My Bariatric Life
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