As it is Stress Awareness Month, I wanted to touch on how I navigate life and stress since my stoma surgery. Stress is part of everyday life and can be heightened when you have a stoma. I think there can be a tendency to overlook how stressful it can be, so I wanted to share my experiences & how I have overcome them.
My journey with stress and a stoma
Stress changes over time and can take on different forms whether it’s before or after surgery or just everyday life. Before I had my surgery my biggest stress was the unknown, thoughts raced through my mind of what will my life be like after? After my stoma surgery it was a massive adjustment, so I was quite stressed out going out in public for the first time and adjusting to my new body. These days, everyday stress often shows up if I don’t have any supplies with me because of the big what if! Now the rational part of me knows I haven’t had a bag leak in well over 6 months but that doesn’t stop me from worrying. I think trying to navigate all of this brings out wider emotions of feeling overwhelmed and isolated as often no one else in your immediate circle hand you a spare bag when you need one.
So how do you deal with stress?
First up, identify the triggers of stoma related stress. I think it’s important first to take a moment to reflect on what is causing you stress. Are you worried about bag leaks in public, or odours or noises? Or is it related to the lack of understanding from others and a change to your normal routine?
My top tips for managing stoma related stress
Be prepared! I always carry a spare stoma supplies kit when I am out and about as it massively reduces my stress. You don’t need to take a lot just a stoma bag, an eakin freeseal®, dry wipes and a disposable bag. I also keep a spare set of supplies in my car & at work just in case!
Find the products that work for you
I honestly can’t stress this one enough! Before I found the right bags, I would get leaks in public and it would just add to the anxiety I felt whilst being out and about. Now I’ve found my perfect combo: Pelican ModaVi convex bags, and eakin freeseal® – I feel so much more confident.
Talk about it
Join a stoma support group or get involved with the stoma community both on and offline. Speaking to someone else who experiences the same problems and stresses can just feel like a massive weight has been lifted of your shoulders. I think for me this helps to reaffirm what I am feeling is valid.
Stay informed but be kind to yourself
It’s okay to not know everything at once, I definitely didn’t! It is a learning curve, and everyone is at different places in their journey so try not to compare yourself to others. Celebrate the small wins & be proud of yourself!
Reflecting on how far you’ve come
I also think it helps to reflect and put it into perspective. As stressing about not having spare stoma supplies on a day out that you might not need, is better than stressing about not being able to leave your house because of an awful UC flare. So although it is still hard, you have come a long way!
Remember you’re not alone
Stress is a normal part of life, and it is to be expected, especially when you have a stoma. If you are ever feeling stressed my DMs are always open & I have shared a lot around the surgery process which might help to not feel so alone! Just remember, navigating life with a stoma is hard, but can be so rewarding!
