The topic at hand is about the emotional journey after undergoing ostomy surgery, specifically focusing on whether experiencing depression is a common occurrence.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. It's quite common to feel depressed, anxious, or fearful after ostomy surgery. The procedure and the resulting lifestyle changes can be quite traumatic.

2. Concerns about body image, relying on an external appliance, uncertainty about recovery, and being confined to a hospital can all contribute to feeling emotionally low.

3. Recognizing these feelings as "reactive depression," which is triggered by the event, can be beneficial. Addressing these feelings early on usually leads to better outcomes.

4. It's important to differentiate between reactive depression and any pre-existing, longer-term depression, as having both can make symptoms more intense.

5. Talking to others, whether they are fellow ostomates, a counselor, or part of a support group, often helps more than medication alone. Many people find that discussing their feelings leads to improvement.

6. Medical professionals may focus on the physical aspects and might not address emotional health. Consider seeking mental health specialists who have experience with post-surgical trauma, but choose them carefully.

7. Here are some practical coping tips:
- Take recovery one step at a time, starting with hour by hour, then day by day.
- Focus on the positives, such as relief from pain and freedom from constant bathroom trips.
- Share your feelings and ask questions within supportive communities. Peers who have been through similar experiences can offer strong support.