Why is my wellbeing so important?

Research shows a significant association between symptoms of depression and/or anxiety and clinical recurrence of IBD.¹ This is because the brain and gut are in constant conversation through a network of neural, hormonal and immunological messages and if you are living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), these lines of communication are disturbed.

In addition, a recent national survey by Crohn’s and Colitis Australia showed while half of respondents were displaying signs of mental distress, only 16% had ever been directly asked about their mental health by their treating clinician.²

For Luke, managing his wellbeing is a constant priority after being diagnosed with IBD at 14

How do I start the conversation?

It can be overwhelming and a bit stressful to start the conversation with your healthcare professional about how you’re feeling – but it is important to know you are not a burden when you want to talk about how you are feeling.

It is normal to feel a bit down or anxious about your IBD and your healthcare professional can provide a safe space for you to share how you are feeling and provide support when you need it.

Simply completing this K10 survey can be a helpful starting point to take along to your next appointment to help start the conversation.

For Catherine, being kind to herself and being open with her doctor is key to helping her feel in control of her IBD

Where can I find further support?

There are a number of places you can visit for support, advice or just a friendly ear.

For 24/7 counselling or crisis support, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Beyond Blue Support Service on 1300 22 46 36.

You can maintain a healthy mind and a healthy body by working with your healthcare professional hand in hand.

So start a conversation today.

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¹ Mikocka-Walus, A. et al. Clinical Gastroenterology and Heptaology, Volume 14, Issue 6, 829-835.e1

² Crohn’s and Colitis Australia. My IBD Experience – Research Report 2018