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7 Keys to Recuperating After a Hospitalization

Surviving life is hard enough in itself, and living with a diagnosis is tough. However, recovery is about working on self and building coping tools to manage the brain condition. The effort into getting well after hospitalization is resiliency at its best.

    I define recuperating as the process of creating comfort, building stability, and focusing on developing wellbeing. Recovering after a hospitalization is a journey. I believe each of us should recognize our diligence at recuperating and be proud of ourselves.

    After every hospitalization I've developed more insight. I was hospitalized earlier this year and my recuperation stage focused on routine to get me into a good place. Here I'll share 7 methods to recuperating after a hospitalization.

1. Medication. I've learned that it's important to discuss any questions about administering medication with a doctor or pharmacist to minimize complications. In the past, I assumed taking medication at any time of day wouldn't create an issue. Once, I took my morning medicine with my nighttime meds that drained my energy. Don't make assumptions about how to take your medicine. And, don't skip a dose. At times, taking medication could be challenging and skipping a dose worsens that. For example, forgetting to take them. Therefore, routine, alarm, pillbox, and support could help maintain consistency for wellness by taking medication as prescribed.

2. Rest. Getting through a period of severe symptoms can cause one to feel drained. For me, my struggles with the mood swings or depressive energy vampire phases took a toil on my whole body. I've learned over time that I function better with more rest. For me this looks like taking a nap most days of the week to reduce irritability and add to my wellbeing.

3. Support. After hospitalization, falling into isolation can become easier. Therefore, checking in with your caregiver or a great supporter will help. That person could help with many things such as giving medication and reminders. Although my family is in another state, they helped me stay on top of my medication regimen. I'd send a text message after taking my nighttime medication. And, did video calls. This support helped me reinforce routine and identify my healing progress and recuperating milestones.

4. Journal. In the past, I discussed different types of journaling such as a mood journal. However, I encourage people to use a Realistic Journal. This journal is a list of activities accomplished that day. For instance, a realistic journal might include:

  • AM/PM medication

  • Journaled

  • Rested

  • Walked the neighborhood

    The great thing about this daily list is it serves as a record that you could review for insight. As you look over your daily lists, you could track your medication regimen and other self-care activities you're focusing on. There is no right or wrong realistic journal activities to identify. 

    Another benefit to having a realistic journal is how it helps as both a milestone-keeper and confidence builder. Opposed to telling yourself you didn't do anything you could reflect on your realistic journal and identify everything you did as far as self-care and more to change your mind and feel good about your progress. I strongly encourage everyone to keep a realistic journal as a record and monitor for emphasis on self-care and other things.

5. Hobbies. Working on hobbies can be therapeutic. We have so many activities we enjoy and could tackle. For example, I like finding words in puzzles and playing Scrabble. These activities also helps stimulate and exercise my thinking. Countless activities can sharpen your mind and help you feel better.

6. Exercising. Exercising doesn't have to be strenuous. Physical activities might include doing yardwork and other house chores. I prefer walking around the park and my neighborhood with my son. Walking is not only good for weight control but also helps build stamina. Other low impact exercises could be swimming or riding a bike, and other activities.

7. Supplements. As I mentioned earlier, being symptomatic can be draining. While recuperating it helps to take vitamins and supplements to help your body manage and to have more energy to feel better. I've added the following vitamins and supplements to my medication regimen: B12, vitamin D, black seed oil, and fish oil. Still, these vitamins and supplements does not replace antipsychotics and other medications that helps treat mental health conditions.

    Finally, as I mentioned earlier keeping a routine has helped me tremendously at recuperating after my hospitalization and maintaining good self-care habits. The approaches discussed could help make the healing process a little easier. Also, keeping doctor appointments is essential. Living in recovery takes a lot of effort to manage everyday and practicing these 7 tips will not only help you after a hospitalization but to solidify good self-care rituals.

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