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Expert HERWriter Guide Blogger

Hi Anonymous and welcome to EmpowHER.

Your post seems to indicate you may be wondering if depression follows a hysterectomy or if you personally may be experiencing depression after having a hysterectomy.

While each individual's experience is unique, it is common  to experience some form of depression after a loss.

  • Anyone can get depressed, but there are certain factors that may make you more susceptible to developing depression. Those things include family history (genetic or learned behavior), trauma, abuse, chronic stress, disappointment, nutritional deficiencies, medical conditions, poor social skills, sleeping disorders, isolation, and negative thoughts.
  • What should I look out for to know if it could be depression?
  • Your doctor may ask you some questions, particularly about your experience related to the following:
    • Feelings of sadness, or foreboding
    • Tiredness
    • Irritability
    • Loss of appetite
    • Aches and pain
    • Insomnia
    • Increased alcohol or drug (including over-the-counter medications) use
    • Loss of focus
    • Emotional numbness
    • Worthlessness
  • How is depression treated? There are many forms of treatment, including psychotherapy, group talk therapy, prescription medication, and medical procedures (for example, electroconvulsive therapy, or vagus nerve stimulation). Medical procedures typically are reserved for extreme cases of depression where medication or therapy has proven ineffective. However, sometimes all that is needed is some counseling and four to six months of prescription medication to get over a bout of depression.
  • Is there a stigma of having a mood disorder? Much of the perceived stigma may lie inside of you. A mood disorder is a real medical condition, that can be helped if treated. You are not alone. It is a sure show of strength to recognize a problem and get help when needed.
  • Is treatment covered by insurance? Many health insurance programs now cover (even if in a limited capacity) mental health support as part of overall medical coverage.
  • Can depression be prevented? It always is a good idea to proactively work on improving your health with exercise, eating well, getting enough sleep, watching your finances, and limiting caffeine and alcohol use. You also can try opening up to trusted friends, clergy, or family about your troubles. They may be able to provide insight and allow you to lean on them during rough patches.

We encourage you to talk with your health care provider and seek professional support. Pat

June 11, 2018 - 8:07am

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