Focusing on the emotional effects now that you've got the physical effects somewhat under control makes perfect sense to me. Also, since you're in the (relatively) early stages of your diagnosis, you will go through stages similar to the grieving process where you're angry, depressed or in denial. These things are normal. Getting some counseling with a therapist who works with chronically or terminall ill patients might be very helpful. There are also several good books out there on coping with chronic illness:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_gw/104-8790297-5051104?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=chronic+illness&x=12&y=19
Looking on the positive side, I feel having this illness has done some good things for me. First of all, it forced me to clean up my act. I was a confirmed sugar and junk food junkie. I cringe now when I think of how I used to eat. I eat a clean, healthy diet now. I started working out regularly, lifting weights to combat the bone loss of being on prednisone and am now in much better shape and look more attractive than I did twenty years ago when I should have been in my prime.
Secondly, the first couple of years of misery really showed me how strong I could be. Even though there were times I was in so much pain I wanted to die, I kept pushing through. I read everything I could get my hands on about UC and general digestive health. I was unwilling to accept my first GI's statement that I would never be well, would be on medication the rest of my life until I had my colon cut out. I educated myself and was able to make positive changes that helped bring about a state of health that, according to them, I would never have obtained.
Struggling through this has helped me be more understanding an empathetic when others are suffering. I feel better equipped to be supportive and helpful. Particularly when other are experiencing digestive problems, I'm often able to give advice or point them toward a source of information. I'm a moderator on a weight training forum where I'm known as the "digestive queen" because of the advice I've been able to give folks who have food sensitivities and such. It's nice to be able to give something back.
Also, although it sounds cliche, there are alot of folks out there who are suffering with physical maladies worse than what we have. When I go through a stage of "poor me," I think of these people, particularly kids that are struck down at very young ages with cancer and other things and that quickly makes me realize how lucky I am.