This topic is about finding peace and reducing the constant worry about living with a stoma. Many people feel mentally exhausted by the endless questions and concerns about their stoma and pouch, such as whether it is full, leaking, fitted correctly, or if it's time to change it. Here are some helpful insights and advice from others who have been through similar experiences:

1. Anxiety tends to decrease over time as you develop a routine. Many people find that after a few weeks or months, they start to automatically check the pouch's fullness by lightly running a hand over it. Once this habit forms, the worries often fade into the background.

2. Confidence grows with experience. Early on, you might make mistakes or experience leaks, but these teach you what works best. As you successfully manage changes and empties, you’ll likely stop second-guessing yourself.

3. Accept the stoma as your "new normal." Long-term users often say they rarely think about it anymore. Some have had a stoma longer than they had a native colon and see it as just a part of life.

4. Use a mental strategy to manage intrusive thoughts. When worries start to creep in, deliberately shift your focus to another subject or activity. Remind yourself that the appliance is secure, and then let the thought go.

5. Engage in activities that fully absorb your attention, like yard work, music, outings, church, movies, or shopping. Many people found that during these times, they forgot about the stoma entirely. Repeating such experiences can help retrain your mind.

6. Keep perspective in mind: worrying cannot prevent every mishap, and occasional issues are manageable. Try replacing "what if" thoughts with gratitude for the freedom you’ve regained, such as not being confined to the bathroom.

7. For some, choosing to have an ostomy rather than waking up with one made acceptance easier. Remembering the life and mobility it provides can support a positive outlook.