I had heart surgery about a year ago to replace the Aortic v...

I had heart surgery about a year ago to replace the Aortic valve, and although I am glad to be alive after being near death, I have been very depressed. I am wondering if anyone else has experienced this? Also, I am starting menopause, and have to do without hormones due to coumadin,(the replacement valve I got is metal), and I was wondering if anyone knew of any alternative therapy to help me through this? (I think the depression could be a combination of both surgery and hormonal imbalance.

Depression is a common problem after traumatic experiences and espeically those which remind us how delicate our life is and curiously how our life relies totally on the working of one part of our body. Similarly mood swings are common with menopause.

So there is some good news there ... you aren't alone in feeling this way. I've been quite fortunate in that I've only suffered the odd day from dark moods since my surgery, but I know all too well about depression, having suffered myself, and nursed others through depressions.

The first thing I'd suggest you do is visit with your doctor. The doctor may recommend someone to talk with, or perhaps give you some anti-depressant medication. The next thing I'd suggest is to get out and DO things. Particularly things you enjoy. Spend you time thinking about positive things. If you dwell on the negative try to stop yourself. If you've a spouse or friend, have them stop you dwelling on the negative ...

A good book to read for some "self help" is "Feeling Good - THe New Mood Therapy" by Dr David Burns ... available in most bookstores ...