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Mental Health adjustment after surgery


Mon, October 05, 2015 11:26 AM

Has anyone seen a therapist/psychologist to deal with the mental health adjustments of surgery? I had a total proctocolectomy with permanent ileostomy last November for Crohns after being sick for about 16 years. Would like to talk to a professional about the life changes after surgery.  

FPO sdelaney
Joined Oct 5, 2015

Thu, March 10, 2016 4:52 PM

 Reply posted for sdelaney.

only suggestions I got from medical health professionals ie pcp, surgeon and therapist is drugs.  not a good solution but works for many.  I just turned off ---- from life---never go outside and never have to deal with the fact that I am petrified of everything outside of my own home.  I don't recommend this solution for most people, but I believe that dealing with surgery and afterwards is probably easier for people who were suffering from either disease, instead of those who really did not need or want the surgery, which happens more often than you might think.  talking seems to help lots of people, but faith in others; empathy is probably the best medicine, and i am sure is easier to have if you have not been betrayed by your surgeon but rather feel that he has helped save your life

FPO dadnabbit
Joined Mar 10, 2016

Mon, February 22, 2016 10:19 PM

 Reply posted for jenniferdavis.

I had an emergency illeostomy after only about a year of having Ulcerative Colitis.  It was quite the adjustment.  I have been seeing a psychologist and psychiatrist since a few months after my surgery.  My anxiety has gone through the roof and from what my doctor said I'm suffering from a mild case of ptsd.  It's totally understandable to not be able to wrap your mind around what you've gone through.  Even as you say you've had Crohns your whole life.  It's still a major adjustment after surgery.  I was going to an amazing clinic through Good Samaritan Hospital but since receiving Medicaid they are transitioning me over to the hospital itself.   I'd suggest seeing someone if you feel the need all it can do is help.  If you have insurance I'd just scour their website for any available providers maybe try a few out and see which one you feel most comfortable with.  

FPO avolk1984
Joined Feb 22, 2016

Sun, November 08, 2015 8:27 AM

 Reply posted for sdelaney.

I found that a therapist was the best way to help me deal with life after surgery as well. Would definitely recommend it!!!

FPO jenniferdavis
Joined Oct 11, 2015

Sun, November 08, 2015 12:58 AM

 Reply posted for jenniferdavis.

Hi, first post newbie here.  Well, I have been diagnosed with Crohn's since 1994 while I was 19 and on Active Duty.  I was retired since I was no longer deployable with the Marines.  Like Jennifer, I have had too many to count trips to the Hospital for IV steroids and other acute medication.  I have had two bowel resections along the way leaving a hideously disfiguring scar on my entire abdomen.  Between being medically discharged, life interruptions, body image disorders.  I certainly did not want therapy when I was a 19 year old warrior, but at 40 years old, I have been going for three years.  It is just a reminder to practice acceptance.  Hope this Helps ~ Greg

FPO atthelake
Joined Nov 7, 2015

Wed, October 14, 2015 4:31 PM

 Reply posted for sdelaney.

I am currently seeing a mental health therapist after my 3 years of continuous surgeries.  I have had the same outcome as you as far as surgery goes.  It is really hard to adjust.  My surgeon was actually the one to suggest that I seek therapy because I have had Crohn's Disease for almost 20 years and have been in and out of the hospital the whole time.  It really helps to have someone to talk to that is neutral party and I am even learning that going through this disease and all it entails definitely causes depression, anxiety and even PTSD.  I would definitely suggest it.  Also CCFA has a new mentoring program that I think you should check out too.  Hope the feedback helps!!!

FPO jenniferdavis
Joined Oct 11, 2015

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