Your Emotions After Ostomy Surgery: What to Expect
After surgery, many ostomy patients feel that their body image has been damaged in some way. This can sometimes lead to the development of negative emotions about the body and damage self-esteem. In this article, we’ll discuss some strategies for managing those negative emotions.
Dealing With Emotions After Stoma Surgery
It’s common to feel a range of emotions after having surgery to create an ostomy. You may feel relieved that the surgery is over and that you’re on the road to recovery.
Emotional Stages
After ostomy surgery, it’s normal to feel a range of emotions. You may feel anxious, depressed, or embarrassed about your new body. But it’s important to remember that your feelings are valid and that you’ll eventually adjust to your new body.
Feeling A Loss After Surgery
It’s not uncommon to feel a sense of loss after having stoma surgery. You may have lost a part of your body that you’re used to, and you may feel like you’re not the same person anymore. It’s important to understand that these feelings are normal and that there are ways to cope with them. Here is a tip:
Talk to your doctor or surgeon about your feelings. They can provide you with support and helpful resources.
Dealing With Anger
It is common to feel angry after stoma surgery. You may be angry with yourself, your body, or the situation. It is essential to find healthy ways to deal with this anger. Some people find that talking to a therapist or counselor can be helpful. It is essential to find what works for you and to give yourself time to adjust to your new body. If you have negative thoughts about your new body, try replacing them with positive ones. Remember that ostomy surgery saved your life!
Feeling Worried And Anxious
- Feeling worried, scared, or anxious is normal after ostomy surgery.
- These emotions are often caused by fears about how your body will look and function after the surgery.
- It is important to remember that everyone heals differently, and there is no right way to look after surgery.
- Talk to your doctor or a support group if you struggle to cope with your emotions.
- Many online resources are available to help you manage your emotions after surgery.
- But if you are still struggling with your emotions, or they get in the way of your healing and ability to function, it may be helpful to speak with your partner.
Your feelings matter; feeling scared, worried, or anxious is alright. You deserve support when recovering from surgery and finding your way after ostomy surgery.
Key Takeaways
It’s normal to feel a range of emotions after ostomy surgery. But it’s important to remember that your surgery was a necessary step to improve your health. Give yourself time to heal emotionally and physically, and be patient with yourself as you adjust to your new body. In time, you’ll learn to love and accept yourself just as you are.