Recovering from hospital

[UpOnDown]

I’m getting discharged soon, and will have been in hospital three months. I always find I dip once out of hospital, does anyone have any tips?

I don't know what the situation is because of covid, but are you able to take days of home leave before discharge?

I would suggest keeping some structure and routine to your day, similar to what they is in hospital, and if you are well enough, making plans to do some nice things.

What support will you have after discharge - both professionally and personally?

Thanks, covid limits home visits unfortunately.

I’ll have some support from my care coordinator.

I thought that might be the case.

Do you have any support from friends or family?

Is your care coordinator good?

I felt very disconnected from the world when I was discharged. I hadn't been in hospital very long, but I was really anxious about doing normal things like going to the shops, because I hadn't had to do it for several weeks. I was also frightened that I was better because hospital gave me a break from my life and that I would get worse again when I returned to 'reality.' I don't have much useful advice other than to ease yourself back in and be kind to yourself. If there are specific things your care coordinator can help you with, definitely ask for that support and if it will help, speak to someone on the ward before your discharge meeting so you know what you want to say in it.

My care coordinator is new. I try not to worry my family.

Thanks for your tips.

I made a list of “things to do when I don’t know what to do with myself” before leaving hospital, which helped. So if I was having a crap time I’d pick one to try for 10 minutes...then either carry on or try another on the list for 10 minutes. It helped me get through the day sometimes.

Thanks. That sounds like a good plan