Social and Emotional Effects of Life With Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Living with IBD can affect every aspect of a person’s life, from socializing to self-esteem
Feb 07, 2022
Jul 19, 2023
Created With SupportAlex Fulton has been working in the wellness field for more than 20 years. She has written extensively about integrative medicine, herbalism, supplements and other topics related to holistic health. Alex also focuses on issues related to women's health, from menstruation to menopause. She has collaborated with physicians, midwives and functional medicine practitioners to promote natural approaches to health care for women. She has a BA in English from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
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Living with IBD can affect every aspect of a person’s life, from socializing to self-esteem
Medically reviewed by Dr. Ayanna Lewis
Designed by Megan Schofield
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can affect every aspect of your life, from your friendships to your feelings.
Living with IBD may affect your:
Self-esteem
Many people with IBD — especially women — struggle to maintain a healthy body image.
Tip: Try to focus on positive qualities — your strength, your sense of humor — that have nothing to do with how you look.
Social life
It can be challenging to have an active social life with IBD.
Tip: Use social media, the internet or advocacy groups to meet others dealing with IBD who can offer sympathy, support and friendship.
Romantic relationships
While most people with IBD are physically able to have sex, the disease can put a damper on romance.
Tip: When you’re ready, have an honest conversation with your partner about how IBD affects your sexuality. A new level of intimacy may result from this conversation.
Emotional well-being
IBD can take a major toll on mental health.
Tip: Don’t be afraid to seek counseling or look for support groups if you find yourself struggling with mental health.
Living with IBD can be hard, but you’re not alone — and help is out there.
Joining a support group (online or in person) can help you find information and connect you with other people who understand what you’re going through — because they’re going through it, too.
This resource was created with support from Amgen.