Need some advice, tips, tricks to staying well.

[RebeccaL]

Ive recently had surgery on my ankle a couple of days ago, and i am now not allowed to walk on it. i am on non-weight bearing instructions from my surgeon. My question is, i suffer from a bit of depression that is usually well maintained by the fact that i keep my self very busy, but now that i do not have much to do, i am finding myself in my head a lot more. I am feeling very useless and alone. I've never had many friends in the past but it hasnt bothered me up until yesterday when no one messaged to ask how i was doing. I am unable to make meals for myself and my family do not really help unless its just for dinner. I am getting around ok on crutches but need to keep my foot up. Any advice on what to do or how to cope over the next two to three weeks while in bed and unable to do much?
I find that i need to keep busy to keep my mind off over thinking. Any advice would be appreciated.
Usually i love having time off but feeling like i am a pain in the bum and useless and alone is pretty awful.

[Summer Rose]

Hi Rebecca

I feel your pain. I too broke an ankle and had surgery and found the revovery lonesome.

I found I quite learned to enjoy talk back radio. I'd never had time to really listen before (too busy with work) and the topics and views were intetesting. I also read a lot and organised cupboards etc in my home.

Most of all, I wrote. But I am a writer, so while it was natural for me to start a big project, I realise that it may not be for you. But you need a project... stone mosaic, new recipes, organise photo albums, new hobby--something you can sink your teeth into and keep your hands busy.

Also, as soon as you can walk, start. Getting outside of the house each day will help. Who knows, you might even meet a neighbour or two and form a meaningful connection.

Kind thoughts to you

[romantic_thi3f]

Hi RebeccaL,

Thanks for your post. Sorry to hear that you're off your feet for a couple of weeks, wishing you a very speedy recovery!

I think as far as coping goes, self-compassion might be key here. It's not your fault that you have to take time off, and yes - it might be difficult or frustrating or defeating, but it is all temporary. The term 'what would you say to your friend if she was going through the same thing' kind of applies here too.

As far as what to do, as someone who knows what it's like to be off her feet, here's some random ideas. You might want to think about the things you enjoy doing normally and see if you can adapt them - like if you enjoy gardening, you could read gardening magazines or browse gardening websites for example.

So, in no particular order: finding recipes to make when you're feeling better, reading, listening to audiobooks, listening to podcasts, catching up on emails, sending a letter, drawing, painting, colouring in, scrapbooking, knitting, crochet, origami, journalling, going through photo albums, trying out meditations or mindfulness exercises, playing a game, doing a puzzle book, going through a jigsaw puzzle, watch a tv show, movie or documentary; read magazines, watch a ted talk, call a friend, watch youtube videos, paint your nails, do a face mask, listen to music, call an old friend, browse social media, update your resume, sort through pictures on your phone, plan your next holiday... Hopefully this gives you a few ideas. You may want to have a look at our social threads and jump in there too.