Unfortunately with this type of thing, it's trial and error. You may have to try a few antidepressants to find one that's right for you. You could try Lexapro (called Ciproflox in Canada) which is a derivative of Celexa but supposedly with fewer side effects AND is good for general anxiety disorders. Also, you have to give each medication a good 2 week trial before you know if it's appropriate for you.

I was also in a bad state of mind between my two surgeries. (the 3 months I had my ileostomy). I was very depressed and cried all the time. I am a really stubborn person so I never looked for any help about it plus I wasn't keen on the idea of any more medications. Just from my experience I can tell you I felt so much better after I had my takedown surgery and life went back to normal again after getting all of that behind me. It was like a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders.

I do know that sometimes it takes a while to find a medication that works best for you. Pehaps see your doctor to go over some other anti-depression drugs. I hope you start to feel better soon.

im like you. i really do not want drugs in me if i can help it and if it affects my pouch like it seemed to trial and error is out. im trying to use my mind and family to help but were not in our home state and feel isolated. my mom n dad came to keep me company til my wife can be home every day. were moving home approx 3 weeks after takedown. florida to ny and im concerned about flying with new j-pouch (accidents etc) but i need so bad to be there ill wear a diaper if necessary...

Yes, I definitely echo what Marianne said. My mood improved considerably as I began to feel physically better and was able to start doing things I had done before I got sick. Basically, my mood "healed" as my body did. But I understand needing to get over the hump. The adjustment period is tough and I truly believe that our minds have to heal along with our bodies. Have you considered therapy? It might be worthwhile to speak to a therapist who has experience dealing with chronic illness. If you can find one who deals specifically with IBD related issues, even better, but any therapist specializing in chronic illness and recovery can be of assistance to you.

i have my second appt with an amazing psychologist tomorrow. he has been through 2 bouts of cancer and deals with incontenance and is so uplifting. thank you for all your suggestions. i believe getting the bag off will do wonders as it weighs very heavy on my mind. especially the loop...