Depression Strongly Influences Surgical Recovery and Healing Outcomes

Depression affects how your body heals after surgery by increasing inflammation and weakening your immune defenses, which lead to longer recovery times and higher complication rates Older adults with cancer who also have depression experience significantly higher post-surgical costs — nearly $25,000 compared to about $17,500 for patients without depression — showing that untreated mental health directly impacts both recovery and finances In patients undergoing spine surgery, depression nearly doubled the risk of delirium and tripled the likelihood of blood clots or infections, underscoring how mood disorders influence physical outcomes Depression triggers systemic inflammation and disrupts hormonal balance, particularly through chronically high cortisol levels, which slow wound healing and increase blood pressure — key drivers of poor recovery Addressing depression before surgery — through dietary changes, gut support, regular movement, sunlight exposure, and consistent rest — helps restore your body's energy systems, reduces inflammation, and supports faster, more complete healing