Coping with emotional and mental challenges after ostomy surgery can be a journey, but it's important to remember that you're not alone. Many people face concerns about body image, lifestyle changes, dating, intimacy, managing their appliances, and the fear of being judged. With time and adjustment, most people regain their confidence and return to full, active lives. Here are some helpful tips and insights to guide you through this process:

1. Professional support
- Schedule one-on-one sessions with an ostomy nurse or attend an ostomy-care class for personalized fitting and troubleshooting.
- Visit hospital-based stoma clinics, which can help refit appliances and introduce you to new products.

2. Product and fitting tips
- Consider using a convex appliance if your stoma is recessed or surrounded by creases. Some have found success with a Coloplast convex pouch that stays on for three days.
- Use moldable or elastic barrier rings under the wafer to improve the seal, especially on uneven or scarred skin.
- An ostomy belt can help hold the pouch firmly against your abdomen.
- Ensure your skin is completely clean and dry before applying the wafer.
- Experiment with different products; manufacturers often provide free samples to help you find the right system before making larger purchases.

3. Supplies management
- Frequent leaks can quickly use up your monthly insurance allowances. Achieving a better seal with a convex wafer, ring, and belt can reduce the number of changes needed and help conserve supplies.

4. Odor and discretion
- If you notice an odor despite using a deodorizer, check for micro-leaks or a poor seal.
- Clothing layers or specialized ostomy wraps and undergarments can help conceal the pouch.

5. Emotional coping
- The first few weeks can be more challenging emotionally than physically, and it's common to feel anxious about leaving home.
- Confidence usually builds gradually, but expect occasional setbacks.
- Try not to let the bag control your life; focus on small victories, like a pouch lasting three days or taking short trips outside the house.

6. Peer connection
- Consider attending the UOAA national conference in Orlando to meet others, attend product workshops, and reduce feelings of isolation.

7. Travel and relationships
- Even after setbacks like divorce or difficulties with travel, many find that life and dating can resume once they regain confidence in managing their appliances.