Antidepressents

[maddie520]

How many people here take antidepressants to live normally after having ileostomy surgery?

[bern65]

Dear maddie520.

You sound like you have a huge regret having had your operation. Having had my operation a good few years ago, as an alternative to being on medication and the risk of cancer. I was not going to die, I was just uncomfortable.

Waking up in the hospital on the 3rd day I had an overwhelmingly feeling that I had done the wrong thing, however those feelings subsidised when I saw first hand others suffering.

Things which have helped are having short and medium term goals. One of mine was to cycle coast to coast which I have done twice now. Fortunately I have not suffered from depression although I know that sometimes I feel overwhelmed. Focusing on the positives which are sometimes hard to see. I try find them, like yesterday I could wait for the loo to become vacant without being absolutely desperate to go. Sounds like a small thing but it's an advantage.

Making a friend of my bag as it's part of me and what's kept me from potentially getting cancer and having a totally uncomfortable life was the best thing I did. Focusing on my little goals and trying to live a worthwhile life keeps me positive.

I'm sure if we all look we can find a tiny advantage to having a bag, or maybe one, two or more. It may help you. It's done now and the only way is to live now and try be positive looking forward.

Living this one and only life is for me a privilage and I want to live it well. No point to be unhappy. Although I'm only human too.

Acceptance is hard. There are others with horrific injuries from war's,accidents and illness which are far worse off than me with the bag attached. No one should ever try make light of how and what others feel. I'm not doing this.

I hope my alternative view helps.

Good luck, hope you are able to find a way to live your life well.

Best wishes B

[maddie520 in reply to bern65]

Thanks. It's nice to hear that some people have no regrets and are happy. Stay well.

Maddie520