Living with IBD
Living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can be very difficult.
Painful and debilitating symptoms, uncertainty about what lies ahead, social isolation and navigating the medical system can all add to your stress. And stress itself can worsen IBD symptoms in some patients.
Finding coping strategies that work for you and your loved ones matters.
Stress management
Everyone’s stress triggers are different. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, some things may help:
- Meditation
- Exercise
- Making time for hobbies you enjoy
- Eating a nutritious diet
- Talking to someone you trust
- Taking on fewer responsibilities
If you have concerns about your mental well-being, speak with your family physician or gastroenterologist.
Peer support
We offer two IBD support groups at Mount Sinai Hospital, both co-facilitated by research nurse Brenda O'Connor and IBD social worker Erin Reeve-Newson. Both groups welcome anyone living with IBD, as well as family, friends and caregivers.
To register, ask a question or be added to the email list, please contact Brenda O'Connor at brenda.o'[email protected] or 416-586-4800 ext. 8349.
Evening educational speaker group
We host educational talks and informal peer support discussions for people living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Caregivers and support persons are welcome.
When: Bimonthly on the last Monday of January, March, May, September and November, starting at 7 p.m.
Where: 18th floor Auditorium, Mount Sinai Hospital, 600 University Avenue, Toronto, ON (hybrid format available via Zoom)
Next session
Date and time: Monday, May 25, 7 p.m. (virtual only)
Topic: IBD at Work — Practical Tips for Navigating Accommodations with Megan Campbell
Zoom link: Join Zoom Meeting
- Meeting ID: 934 5205 2042
- Passcode: 317185
Upcoming dates:
- May 25
- September 2026 (date to be determined)
- November 2026 (date to be determined)
- January 2027 (date to be determined)
- March 2027 (date to be determined)
To ask a question or be added to the email list, please contact brenda.o'[email protected] or 416-586-4800 ext. 8349.
Daytime support group
We host in-person monthly peer support for people living with IBD. Caregivers and support persons are welcome.
When: Monthly, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: 18th floor Auditorium, Mount Sinai Hospital, 600 University Avenue, Toronto, ON
Upcoming dates (2026):
- April 29
- May 27
- June 24
To ask a question or be added to the email list, please contact brenda.o'[email protected] or 416-586-4800 ext. 8349.
Tips for caregivers
Caring for someone with IBD can feel overwhelming, especially early on. A few things that can help:
- Listen without judgment or offering advice
- Acknowledge how hard it is to live with IBD
- Early in a diagnosis, be selective about how much information you take in; focus on what you need to know right now
- If you’re feeling isolated, anxious or low, find someone to talk to
- Make time for activities that restore you, such as yoga, reading, music, painting or hiking
Resources
Crohn's and Colitis Canada offers educational information, inspiring stories and ways to find support.
Ostomy Toronto provides education, stories and peer connection for its members.