Ostomy Help & Support: Dealing With Your Stoma & Depression

Ostomy Mental & Emotional Health Page Contents

Living with a stoma & its psychological impacts

For many of us, loneliness is a common feeling. We can often feel isolated during or after big life changes like moving somewhere new, losing a loved one or retiring from work.

It’s also natural to feel this way with a long-term illness, especially if you find talking about it difficult or feel it restricts you from getting out and about.

You’re not alone if you feel conscious of changing your stoma bag or catheter outside the house either. Many patients, especially people new to the condition, are concerned about having a safe and private space to do this and worry others may notice. This uncertainty can easily leave you feeling anxious and isolated.

We know that living with a stoma bag adds additional complexity so have worked with a range of charities and associations that can offer extra specialised support for those living with an ostomy. Taking the first step is often the hardest part of the journey. There is a wealth of specialist ostomy help and support out there to help alleviate depression after ostomy surgery and the psychological impact of living with a stoma.

You are not alone.