Emotional and Psychological Needs

Through research and my experience with ostomy patients I am able to provide information and emotional support to not only the ostomy patient but their families and love ones as well.

Despite the positive improvement made to an individuals life, most people still face ostomy surgery with fear and panic of the unknown. I hope to alleviate many of these fears through this site. Living with an ostomy does not have to rob an individual of a quality life.

Rehabilitation cannot be completed until all aspects of the patients well being (physical, emotional, sexual, social and psychological) have been addressed and resolved.

In a healthcare environment the clinicians have little time to obtain a secure seal on an ostomy pouching system and teach self-care “survival skills” let alone consider a patients emotional and psychological needs. When, then, are these crucial needs being addressed? Who is the appropriate person to mitigate these issues?

The relationship between the caregiver and patient is an exceedingly valuable tool that, when leveraged appropriately can have a powerful, positive effect on the psychological outcome of ostomy surgery. The caregiver has to earn the trust and learn what is happening in the life and mind of the person wearing the pouching system to contribute to his or her mental well being.

Unfortunately a patients emotional and psychogical needs are very seldom made an issue. Lingering depression after ostomy surgery can occur and must be dealt with. Some patients may be completely unwilling to discuss personal concerns. Despite the obstacles, however, this crucial aspect of ostomy rehabilitation cannot be overlooked. Have on hand other resources such as online forums who has lived or is living with an ostomy. There is nothing like talking to someone who has personally gone through this sort of procedure and is leading a healthy, productive, happy life.