Struggling to accept your new body after ostomy surgery? You’re not alone. This article explores common emotional challenges post-surgery, offering practical tips and support options to help you navigate the process. Learn how to embrace your new body, boost your confidence, and find the support you need to feel whole again.
Accepting a new body after ostomy surgery can be a difficult process. Many studies have shown having ostomy surgery can result in changes in body image and psychosocial problems, such as poor self-esteem, anxiety, depression, low self-worth, loneliness and problems in relationships and/or intimacy. Some people may be at a higher risk for developing body image problems due to a younger age at surgery, a history of low self-esteem, weight gain or depression after surgery. If you feel this way, know that you are not alone and your feelings are valid. Even if your surgery saved your life, it is okay not to like your stoma and to feel unsure about your new body. But what can you do about it?
Mental health therapy before surgery can help you prepare for the change in your body and process it in a healthy way, reducing the chances of a long-term struggle with body image. Support systems after surgery can also help strengthen your mental health. This can involve friends, family, counselling or an ostomy-specific support group, either online or in your community. Sharing how you feel will help you process everything and feel compassion for yourself, as well as help prevent feeling alone in the process.
Visit https://www.ostomycanada.ca/find-a-chapter-peer-support-group/ to find support groups near you. You can also join ostomy support groups on Facebook or follow people on social media who promote ostomy awareness and positive body image.
Having an ostomy is most likely something that was out of your control, so focusing on things you can control can be a great step toward feeling like yourself in your new body. For example, wearing clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident, wearing cute ostomy bag covers with nice designs (which can make the bag look less ‘medical’), journalling or practising gratitude and engaging in activities you still enjoy can all help you feel like yourself again.
Another tip is to avoid comparing your new body to your old body. Focus on the present and future, not the past, and avoid suppressing or ignoring your feelings. This can be a big challenge, but it is very important for your overall mental health. If you find it too difficult to not focus on the past or you are stuck in constant negative feelings, reaching out to a mental health professional is a great option.
Ostomy surgery can be lifesaving, but it may also come with great challenges, both physically and mentally. Struggling with body image after surgery is normal, but there are ways you can help yourself through the process.
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By Hannah Martin-Spencer, BKin, Ostomy Canada Marketing Team.
Hannah, a passionate 24-year-old from the Greater Toronto Area, is expanding her expertise in acupuncture at a Calgary post-secondary institution. With a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and a minor in Psychology, she blends her knowledge into her new acupuncture pursuit. Diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at 16 and unsuccessful biological drug treatments, she underwent ileostomy surgery at 20. Hannah is driven to advocate for ostomy individuals. As a new volunteer, she will support Ostomy Canada with social media and fundraising. She enjoys outdoor activities, baking, and painting in her free time. Hannah’s journey of resilience and determination, with her ostomy transformation showcasing her strength, aims to inspire and support the ostomy community.
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