Depression and hospital stays

Recently I received an email regarding Healthcare Associated Infections (HAIs). I was astounded to realize how many people become infected after their treatments! When someone develops an infection at a  hospital or patient care facility that they did not have prior to treatment, this is referred to as a Healthcare Associated Infection.
This is a Global crisis affecting both patients and healthcare workers alike. HAIs often lead to lengthened hospital stays or even readmission. This obviously not only takes its toll on your physical health but on your emotional wellbeing.
So , how do you cope with longer than expected stays in hospital? Well, as with everything, it's in the attitude. Now, your attitude is great when you're healthy, but what about when you're sick and in pain? This is a vey difficult time to try to keep depression at bay. You can do it though with a few strategies and some help from kind friends and family. Here are a few suggestions :
1. Get an ipod or similar device with music on that lifts your spirit.
2. On your ipod, also put some motivational talk and meditation music. These are great for lifting you and calming you too.
3. Get some loved items from home to have around you . Nothing heals the soul and body quicker than the feeling of home and peace. So, the next best thing is to bring some of the home to you!! (eg of things could be a favourite blanket, pillow, photoframe etc)

Now I know that some of this might prove to be impossible to you, which is why you get family and friends involved. People want to help, so let them. Now, it's very important for your physical pain and emotional state to practise a little meditation during this time. It is this which will help to restore the balance back into your life and get you well again.( of course coupled with medication if required.)

So, don't wait for hospital stays to start doing this, but if you are looking at entering hospital or a care facility, then consider going in armed with these things to facilitate your wellness.
Forwarned is forearmed so hop onto the HAI website to find out more.
http://www.haiwatch.com/
Let's help ourselves in all situations this week and bring about abundant wellness!!
Take care till next time.
Deb