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41,452 members
Feb 23, 2012

Connecting with Others: Support for Young Adults with Ostomies

This topic is about a young woman who is 23 years old and has been living with an ostomy for two years. Her mother is concerned because her daughter is having a hard time adjusting and feels isolated, as she doesn't want to talk about her condition with anyone. The mother is looking for ways to help her daughter connect with others who might be going through similar experiences, and she has been trying to find support through Facebook.

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

1. Encourage her to join an online ostomy support community. Many people find that talking to others who are in the same boat can help break the feeling of isolation, make their feelings seem more normal, and offer practical advice.

2. Let her know that feeling shocked, withdrawn, or depressed after surgery is quite common. Understanding this can help her feel less alone and reduce any self-blame she might be experiencing.

3. Explain that while joining a forum won't change her physical situation, it can greatly improve her emotional well-being. Sometimes, just knowing more about what she's going through can be empowering.

4. Share personal success stories from others who have been in her shoes. Some people have gone from feeling completely withdrawn to becoming actively engaged in their communities. Even after a successful reversal, some choose to stay involved to help others, showing the lasting benefits of being part of a supportive community.

5. Highlight that parents' efforts to understand and help their children connect with others are appreciated. This can be a gentle first step for a young adult who might be hesitant to reach out on their own.
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