Other Emotional Responses
Besides stress, anxiety, and depression, people with IBD may develop other emotional responses, such as:
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Feelings of guilt that they did something to cause IBD
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Feelings of dependence on others to live their lives and feelings of loss of control
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Feelings of not being reliable (having to cancel plans, calling in sick to work, etc.) and letting others down
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Feelings of embarrassment to talk about their bowel health
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Disease denial if they can’t accept and deal with the disease in a productive way. Acceptance can help a person go about their daily activities, follow physicians’ instructions and maintain a positive outlook.
It’s normal to feel a range of emotions when you live with IBD. But IBD does not define you. Let your values guide you. Focus on living what is important to you and don’t stop doing things you love.
Remember to change what you can and accept what you can’t. Have compassion for yourself. With support from friends, family and healthcare providers who can provide proper treatment, you can learn to cope with, and control, your disease.