Depression is not uncommon after surgery, or even after a diagnosis that leads to surgery.

Individuals with depression that is well controlled may find that they have “breakthrough” symptoms during an illness.

It can be challenging to differentiate between what happens during a typical recovery fromsurgeryand depression symptoms.

Mature female patient sitting on exam table in exam room looking down

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Depression

So what is depression, exactly?

These can include chronic pain, a shortened life expectancy, or radical changes in lifestyle.

Depression does not affect everyone in the same way.

Being aware of the signs of depression is important so that it can be quickly identified and treated.

For some individuals, family and friends may identify the signs of depression before the depressed individual.

Symptoms triggered by depression are typically not improved with the surgery recovery.

While depression may be triggered by surgery, it should be treated just like depression that occurs without surgery.

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