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Ostomy surgery can cause feelings of hopelessness, loneliness, shame, depression and isolation. The cause of these feelings is complex and so is the solution. When you feel like doing nothing, you need to DO SOMETHING. No matter what the problem, you have to help yourself; there is no one who can do it for you. Facing the unknown is daunting, but knowing there are people to talk to, people who have gone through what you are experiencing, can make these changes less frightening. Our ostomy support group is just that. We share experiences, both good and bad, and ways we have dealt with them. These suggestions may give you some ideas how to solve your problem but, that is where the YOU doing something comes in.
WHO should attend a meeting?
First and foremost YOU, or any person with an ileostomy, colostomy, or urostomy, caregivers or family members. Remember you are not alone.
THE IMPORTANCE OF SUPPORT GROUPS
Via the Austi-Mate Journal, Austin, TX
Years ago support groups for people diagnosed with cancer were often frowned upon or dismissed as ’touch-feely.’ Many believed that talking about their feelings or asking for help were signs of weakness. Some even feared that meeting others with similar problems would fuel depression and self-pity.
Times have changed, however, and so have theories about the value of talk. Today, more and more hospitals are offering emotional support—with groups and one-on-one counseling—as part of the standard treatment for rehabilitation. Earlier this year, the National Cancer Institute, together with two other groups, launched a national campaign to raise awareness of the vital role emotional support plays in enhancing quality of life for people with cancer. Some research suggests that support may even increase longevity.
With a little help from strangers, it makes sense that emotional support from a caring circle of close friends or family would buffer the stress suffered. But many patients say they lack open communication within their families. As research and the experiences of many people have borne out, involvement in a support group comprised of others in the same boat can fill a unique void.
Experts also speculate that emotional assistance confers physical benefits by decreasing stress. Depression overworks the body’s stress response system, and it may be that participating in a support group helps lift depression.
Thus a group of peers can be a place where people can vent some of their feelings without suffering guilt about burdening an intimate partner or friend. While research on the mind-body connection and cancer is still preliminary, there is no doubt that emotional support can ease psychological stress. Support groups that were once considered ancillary aspects in treatment have moved into the mainstream, playing an integral role in enhancing—and possibly prolonging—the lives of millions of people.
The Vancouver Chapter of the UOA of Canada has produced the above Handbook for the benefit of all ostomates. You can download it by clicking on the cover photo (above).
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