This topic is about the emotional journey of coping with an unexpected ostomy. Imagine waking up from surgery to find your body has changed in a way you never anticipated. This can be a lot to handle, both physically and emotionally. Even with strong support from family and work, feelings of isolation and numbness can creep in, along with unsettling memories of the hospital experience. It's important to acknowledge these feelings and find ways to express them.

Here are some pieces of advice and insights that might help:

1. Remember, you are not alone. Many people with ostomies face similar emotional challenges. Sharing your feelings on forums, through an Instagram blog, or other outlets can be very therapeutic.

2. Consider seeking professional help:
- Engage with the hospital’s psychology or psychiatry team, or find a therapist who has experience with trauma, depression, and chronic illness.
- Medication can be beneficial. For instance, some find Lexapro effective when other antidepressants haven't worked.

3. Allow yourself to grieve. It's okay to feel sad, angry, or to question "why me?" without judging yourself. Over time, grief often eases and acceptance grows.

4. Practice self-compassion and mindfulness:
- Continue with practices like zazen or walking meditation to help you stay present and explore the concepts of impermanence and change.
- A helpful resource is "The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der Kolk, which explains how the body stores trauma.

5. Take recovery one day at a time. Celebrate small milestones, like making your own meal, as they can help you feel a sense of progress and control.

6. Reach out whenever you feel low. The community is always ready to listen and offer support.