Fighting Depression and Mental Exhaustion

[Caitlyn130 2]

Hi guys,

My name is Caitlyn, I’m going in into my fourth week post op from gastric sleeve surgery. I start advanced purée tomorrow but I’ve been struggling so hard with my depression and having mental breakdowns as well. I’m off from work for 8 weeks as I’m a RN, and being home alone is hard, I’m getting tired of drinking so many fluids, and even though I’m only taking in 1 Protein Shake a day, I get periods were I don’t want to drink anything at all. I’m somewhat regretting the surgery even though I’m seeing good results, any advice on how to fight this?

[St77 87]

Hang in there, as hard as it is now, you will get through this! As an RN, you know how important to stay hydrated is and getting the nutrients. Starting the purees might help because it's likely offering something different than the shakes.

I had RNY and was alone for most of my recovery. I used that time to allow my body to heal from this major surgery, and when I couldn't nap, I took the time I never had to normally catch up on shows I wanted to watch.

Even at 7 months out and complications that I'm having, I don't regret my surgery. I can move easier and breathe easier.

I hope you start to feel better.

This board is a great place to vent and find support.

[Merri Beth 96]

2 hours ago, Caitlyn130 said:

Hi guys,

My name is Caitlyn, I’m going in into my fourth week post op from gastric sleeve surgery. I start advanced purée tomorrow but I’ve been struggling so hard with my depression and having mental breakdowns as well. I’m off from work for 8 weeks as I’m a RN, and being home alone is hard, I’m getting tired of drinking so many fluids, and even though I’m only taking in 1 Protein Shake a day, I get periods were I don’t want to drink anything at all. I’m somewhat regretting the surgery even though I’m seeing good results, any advice on how to fight this?

You got this. I also have been home with just my cat since the surgery and for me what works is praying. Not to say that is for everyone but it is what works for me. I had my surgery on Nov 29th. I go out and walk or do something else for self care each day. I just came from my post op appointment, so far down 22 lbs. When i start to feel sad i pray and log onto to this site and enjoy the posts and support. You are not alone.

[Caitlyn130 2]

Thank you guys, I just wish I could sleep better probably would help instead of sleeping till like 10-11am, my sleep has been trash, tossing and turning, waking up in the middle of the night. I try to do some activities around the house but after about 15 mins I get nauseous and have to take a Zofran and sit down. I just feel like I’m so far behind

[SpartanMaker 767]

I told my wife before I had surgery that I would at some point or another regret my decision. I told her that her job was to remind me why it did it in the first place. Thankfully I didn't have to rely on her reminders too much, but there were definitely some times when I questioned if it was worth it. The good news is it does get easier and the bad days are a lot more rare now.

I mention this because I think it's important to remember that some of the best things in life are also REALLY hard. Losing weight, whether it's with or without surgery is one of those hard, but ultimately satisfying things. Part of that satisfaction comes from knowing you endured the trial and came out a better person on the other side.

I"m now coming up on 3 months post op and I can legitimately say that even though I still struggle sometimes, living with WLS is so much easier now than it was at 4 weeks. You can do it, but you just have to grin and bear it for a while. These sayings may sound trite, but reminding myself that "This too shall pass", and "It's a marathon, not a sprint" are what got me through the hard days.

Edited December 9, 2022 by SpartanMaker

[kaylee50 61]

Maybe distraction will work. Do you have Netflix or Prime? As a fellow busy professional (not an RN, but also go-go-go all day), I was at a loss being home all day with nothing to do. So I tried to distract myself by watching tv. I binged Jack Ryan (10/10, loved it!), finally watched Stranger Things (very cool), and tried to get into k-drama (really tried, but maybe I’m just not cool enough). I hear Wednesday (Addams Family remake) is amazing. Just stay away from food shows! LOL

[Caitlyn130 2]

I have definitely been watching a lot of TV thankfully one of my favorite series I was able to find and it’s long so that should help, I think I just need to get through this week and then I’m on soft foods which definitely gives me a more variety of food which should help, I just wish I was stronger to do more activity than I do now, as I last about 15 mins then I get nauseous, which kinda sucks, I’m hoping that will get better as I recover, but thanks guys for the encouraging words it really does help a lot