A person’s lifestyle with an Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis is more than managing body symptoms. IBD is a condition in which the gastrointestinal tract is affected by repeated episodes of inflammation, causing stomach ache, diarrhea and more. For approximately 10 million people around the globe who have these two most common forms of IBD, managing the psychological toll of the disease can be challenging. Uncertainty regarding flares, social stigma, dietary restrictions, and fatigue all take their toll on the psyche. It should come as no surprise that IBD patients are prone to depression, isolation and anxiety because of the challenges that they may have to face, along with the fear of the possibility of needing surgery.

Treatment and respect for the associated mental illness issues in such individuals must therefore be available to enhance overall quality of life and overall health. Let us tell you more about the mental impact of IBD and rational means of coping with chronic disease in patients.

Impact of Inflammatory Bowel Disease on the mind

The brain-gut axis, or the gut-brain, is the high-level interaction network with biochemical communication between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system. The inflammation of the gut in an IBD patient can affect cognition and mood, and emotional stress and distress can exacerbate the condition. It is a self-reinforcing negative cycle that is two-way: gastrointestinal symptoms that worsen with emotional distress, while chronic physical distress perpetuates mental stress.

Flare-ups of IBD are the periods over which symptoms are worse, are unpredictable, and often give rise to anxiety and uncertainty. Even in remission, there is a constant threat of sudden relapse, becoming emotionally exhausting. Constant chronic stress is an added side effect of being constantly in readiness to cope with the disease.

You may also like

Depression and anxiety in IBD Patients

People with IBD may suffer depression and anxiety. Depressive mood in up to one-third of IBD patients, and extremely severe anxiety in up to 40 percent, particularly at flareup or diagnosis, have been reported. These attitudes influence the degree to which the patient complies with treatment, is outgoing, and measures their quality of life.

In adolescence and young adults, the condition can abbreviate significant markers of life, such as education, occupation, and romance, which causes emotional disturbance.

How to cope with the emotional impact of IBD

Even with the challenges of living with IBD, evidence-based treatment and palliative care can potentially help one cope with the psychological effects of the disease.

1. Get mental health care

Psychotherapy and cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) in general have been found to decrease depression and anxiety in IBD patients. Referral to a psychologist or counsellor trained in chronic disease can help patients modify a pessimistic orientation and acquire coping skills.

2. Practice stress reduction techniques

As with meditation, slowness of breathing, or yoga, will reduce stress and improve overall emotional regulation. Stress itself does not induce IBD, but it can make symptoms worse and increase flare-ups much more than before. Systematic relaxation training has been linked to improving the quality of life in chronic disease patients.

3. Stay informed and empowered

Being aware of one’s status can reduce tension and establish feelings. Education about IBD, monitoring of symptoms, and open communication of healthcare providers with healthcare providers can give the patient a sense of control over treatment.

4. Develop a balanced regimen

IBD can interfere with one’s daily routine. Therefore, establishing a routine with regular times for food, rest, and exercise can restore a sense of normalcy. Less vigorous exercises, such as walking or stretching, not only maintain the body’s health but also induce endorphins, the ‘happy’ hormones.

5. Communicate openly

Open discussion with employers, family members, and friends regarding IBD can minimise stigma and enhance knowledge. Discussion regarding the progression of the disease and its impact on daily life can generate more empathetic settings and fewer hiding and pretending to be fine.

Role of healthcare providers for IBD patients

Most physicians, nurses and other health care professionals have a critical role in diagnosing and managing the mental well-being of IBD patients. Mental health screening needs to be done more often than usual. Therefore, health professionals, like gastroenterologists, dietitians, and specifically mental health professionals, all working in unison, can improve patient outcomes. Caring for the patient, not for the disease, means better and more humane care.

Summary

The emotional impact of living with chronic illness is what needs to be understood as the key to recovery and staying alive. Those living with IBD, with the right tools, support group, and professional care, can learn to manage their symptoms. Mind training is as important as training the gut. Both are necessary for true wellness.