I am a steeplechase runner myself and that is what I do for a "life" (Living) Even if you are a young runner, if you are out for 6 weeks, that is a pretty long time in running terms. Yes, it is true the younger you are, the quicker the return could be once you are starting to work out. However, this takes a long time to get the strength back at the previous levels. Training (even as hard as before) is very different from racing, so you might not see any improvements for some time. Your workouts and approach have to be analyzed (with your coach) but other than that, just be patient and wait. keep doing and be consistent in your workouts (don't rush or over trained) and get strong for the summer track (steeplechase) introduce weight training and do a lot of cross country training and racing (but again don't get discourage) if you get into the indoor season, get into 800's and 1500's meter races nothing more than that and then by very early spring get into some 10,000 meter races (not 5.000) by the time the 3K stp comes by you will be ready....you will be the man. But remember be patient, today is raining but tomorrow there will be sunshine.