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Living with IBD

Explore resources for living with IBD, including peer support, tips and articles.
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Living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can be very difficult.

Painful and debilitating symptoms, uncertainty about the future course of your disease, social isolation and learning to navigate the medical system can contribute to overall stress.

Stress itself can worsen IBD symptoms in some patients. It is important to find coping strategies that work for you and your loved ones while you learn to live with your disease. 

Stress management 

Everyone has different triggers that cause them to feel stressed. If you recognize you are feeling stressed, you can try:

  • Meditation
  • Exercise
  • Making time for enjoyable hobbies
  • A nutritious diet
  • Talking to others about your stress
  • Taking on fewer responsibilities

If you have concerns about your mental well-being, please speak with your family physician or your gastroenterologist.  

Peer support 

We offer two support groups for IBD patients and their caregivers at Mount Sinai Hospital. The groups are led by a Mount Sinai Hospital IBD research nurse and a social worker.

Both support groups are open to anyone living with IBD. Email our coordinator if you are interested in registering for an upcoming session. 

Evening education speaker group

Our evening group meets in person every other month and features a guest speaker as well as peer sharing. 

Upcoming dates: September 30, November 25, January 27, March 31 and May 26.

Time: 7 p.m. 

Location:
18th floor auditorium of Mount Sinai Hospital
600 University Avenue

Sessions are also shared virtually through Zoom. 

Daytime support group

Our daytime group meets in person once a month at Mount Sinai with a primary focus of providing peer support for those struggling with IBD.

Upcoming dates: September 25, October 23, November 27, December 18, January 29, February 26, March 26,  April 30, May 28 and June 25.

Time: 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Location:
18th floor auditorium of Mount Sinai Hospital
600 University Avenue

Tips for caregivers 

Caring for someone with IBD can be overwhelming, especially at first. Here are some tips for how to cope.

  • Listen without offering judgment or advice.
  • Acknowledge how difficult it is to have IBD.
  • Do not overwhelm yourself with information near the beginning of a diagnosis. Consider what information you need and when you need it.
  • Find someone to talk to if you are feeling isolated, anxious or depressed.
  • Make time for fulfilling activities such as yoga, reading, music, painting or hiking.  

Resources 

Crohn's and Colitis Canada has a wealth of educational information, inspiring stories and ways to find support.  

Ostomy Toronto provides education, stories and peer connection for its members.