Injured

Just about two weeks ago I tore my menial meniscus tendon. I've been restricted to NO physical activity until at least this week when I see the Dr. again. In the meantime, I took a nose-dive into exercise withdrawal, and depressingly ate my face off for two weeks. Starting today, I'm going to try like hell to at least eat right, but food has always been my biggest battle. Now I'm depressed, bored, and angry with myself, which is the most dangerous combo for me.

Any tips or advice for staying motivated through an injury?

Replies

  • F00LofaT00K
    F00LofaT00K Posts: 688 Member
    Hello! I broke my foot back in mid-October... I've been out of work since then and went through all of the emotions you're describing. I was angry at myself for getting drunk enough to seriously hurt myself, depressed that I couldn't work/make money/DO ANYTHING... and the boredom... oh my god, the boredom... I still have that going on. This site has been working wonders for my depression by giving me a something to do, giving me a forum for social interaction and I keep coming across new ideas and topics to research about eating healthy/losing weight.

    I also spent the first couple of weeks stuffing my face... and had noticeably gained weight. :(
    I stay motivated to get healthy by planning my days as much in advance as possible (even though half of it changes throughout the day). Having a plan helps me to stick to eating the right amounts of food. I also found ways to occupy myself. I was playing the Sims 2 for a couple of weeks but day after day got boring for me so I found a site where I could freelance articles for money. Even though none of my ideas were liked enough to get published, doing research and using my brain kept me in a better mood.

    By NO physical activity, are you entirely bed-bound or are you able to go somewhere and use a wheelchair or crutches? I was able to use crutches and would just go outside to sit and read... it wasn't much but it was WAY better than sitting inside all the time. Once I got used to the crutches, I was taking tiny walks around my apartment building every so often. Also, keeping my curtains open to let the sunlight improves my mood.

    And FINALLY, I kept having to remind myself up until my cast came off that this is only TEMPORARY. It WILL end and it WILL be better as I get used to living like this in the mean time. To be honest, half the time that thought didn't do anything for my mood... but every so often it would stop me from crying. Yes, I pity myself so much that I cry sometimes...

    Good luck and hope you heal quickly!
  • ClaireyDeexx
    ClaireyDeexx Posts: 34 Member
    Hey, Spruillie! First of all, do not get angry with yourself! Things happen and all you can do is look forward and keep improving. I also got a knee injury and that was a huge struggle for me. To add to that, I also sprained a muscle in my arm. You are not alone! My biggest advice is do not give up! When you begin conquering your food addiction, you will feel amazing, and probably continue to loose weight if you are eating well enough. Remember, there is no such thing as junk food! Just junk, and food! Continue to eat well. For me that was inspiration enough to eat right when injured. Also, I don't know exactly your situation, but what about upper body or ab exercises? The little things count when it comes to feeling better about yourself. Don't give up on yourself, and good luck!