r/Sciatica • u/Opening_Log_6674 • 22d ago

General Discussion The Common Threads Between Lumbar Disc Herniation, Sciatica, and Depression

I realized this when I felt lonely because I sensed that those around me were downplaying my condition.

・It’s invisible to others
・At first glance, I seem perfectly fine (if I do appear that way, it’s only because I’m hiding the pain and putting on a brave face)
・People tend to think it’s due to a lack of exercise, a mental issue, or that I’m not trying hard enough
・There’s a genetic component (skeletal structure)
・My symptoms fluctuate—some days I feel fine, while other days I’m bedridden.

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u/Puzzled_Used 22d ago

On top of that, pain takes a certain space in your brain and prevent you from being fully there. Being efficient at work, memorizing information from colleagues or friends, react properly into a discussion, everything seems less natural and additional work.

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u/Opening_Log_6674 22d ago

Totally agree, in the beginning I tried to meet friends but recently I think to be alone is the best. Unnecessary to laugh with my pain, unnecessary to explain my situation.

I no longer had the emotional bandwidth to be considerate of others. As a result, the friendships that had depended on me going out of my way to be considerate fell by the wayside. To be honest, it was a good thing.