It is normal to feel stressed after being in the hospital. Having a knee replacement will make you feel much better over time, and will increase your ability to do the things you like to do.
Below are some of the reasons why you may feel emotional after surgery:
Adrenaline rush of the surgery wears off and you have a natural low 2-3 days after surgery. This is normal and will clear up, keep going with your rehabilitation.
Inability or difficulty to do some of the activities you enjoy
Reactions to the anaesthesia or medications post surgery
Physical or emotional stress
Depression not treated prior to surgery
Fear of the unknown in terms of recovery.
Major life changes like these, even when they are not permanent, can make you feel sad or worried.
It is normal to feel frustrated or down about the short-term changes to your mobility and day-to-day activities during your recovery. If your negative feelings are severe, or if you find you don’t adjust after a week or two, let your doctor know.
It takes time to adjust after surgery, but many people find they can regain their emotional balance. This isn’t true for everyone, however. Sadness or anxiety might not be your main symptom, so depression might be hard to spot. This is why it’s so important to talk to your doctor about how you’re feeling. These feelings after surgery are common, and if you’ve started to feel depressed or very anxious, your doctor can help.
If you have been feeling sad or anxious since your surgery, here are the warning signs to look out for:
Noticeable changes in mood, energy level, or appetite.
Having trouble feeling positive emotions.
Problems sleeping or sleeping too much.
Problems with concentrating, feeling restless, or on edge.
Increased worry or feeling stressed.
Feeling more angry, irritable, or aggressive than normal.
A need for alcohol or drugs.
Sadness or hopelessness.
Suicidal thoughts.
Obsessive thinking or compulsive behaviour.
Thoughts or behaviours that interfere with work, family, or social life.
Unusual thinking or behaviours that concern other people.
Some simple self-help measures can help minimise the emotions such as sleeping well, eating healthy, taking up a new hobby such as reading or taking regular walks. Do not be afraid to ask for help from relatives or friends who may be able to keep you company.
Regular exercise can also help release some feel good hormones which can curb depression. It can also help with self confidence and self esteem
References
“Older Adults and Mental Health.” National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1 Oct. 2016. Accessed 22 May 2020 - Click here
Arthritis and Depression: what you can do about it: Versus Arthritis: June 19. Accessed 22 May 2020 - Click here
Mitchell M (2012) Anxiety management in minimal stay surgery: Nursing times 108(48) pg 15-16