For some people living with a stoma can at times be both stressful physically and mentally whereas for others the stoma has relieved stress they had previously. For me it has been a bit of both.
For stress awareness month I wanted to share tips and tricks I have learned to help me manage my stress with a stoma.
Why is life stressful with a stoma?
Having a stoma is a significant life event whether it was planned or an emergency. Even if it has given you your life back there are still times it can cause stress and worry and it can take a while to adjust to this new life.
The bowel and mind are intertwined in a cycle that can be hard to break – stress can lead to bloating, pain, and increased frequency. I find that when my stoma stresses me out, the frequency of my bag filling up increases therefore making me more stressed.
I have had two stomas, and they have caused me stress for different reasons. My reversal was possibly one of the most stressful times of my life, so my second stoma relieved my stress massively, but I still have difficult days.
Tips
- Always have spare supplies: I have been caught out a few times from an unexpected leak. Even just carrying one spare bag change can be enough to reduce stress.
- Have confidence in your supplies: if a product isn’t working for you, consider trying something different or adding a new product to your routine. I did this with the eakin freeseal® versa.
- Reach out to others: remember you aren’t alone in this. If you are having a particularly hard time, there is so much support available! Local support groups are a great place to meet others in a similar position and many of these groups have an online community with others to chat day and night
- Take time out to do something you love: I love to run; it gives me a chance to reflect and enjoy some time in my own world. Activities such as yoga or swimming can be relaxing or maybe find a book you would like to read.
- Lifestyle: I find I get most stressed when I haven’t had enough sleep, or I haven’t eaten well. Take the opportunity to have a nap if you can and keep well hydrated and nourished.
It is natural to feel stressed in life particularly with a stoma, finding ways to combat your stress whether that be a mindfulness technique, a new hobby or a walk with the dog can really help. So go get some rest and take time out for self-care, you deserve it!
