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

Educational talks and informal peer support discussions for individuals living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Family, friends and caregivers are welcome to attend.

Meetings occur on the last Monday of the months September, November, January, March, and May. Each meeting begins at 7 p.m. in the 18th Floor Auditorium at Mount Sinai Hospital. A hybrid format is available with a Zoom link option.

Next session

Date and Time: Monday, September 29, 2025, 7 p.m. 
Topic: Navigating IBD Therapies: Biosimilars and New Options
Speaker: Ms. Luxin Ye, IBD Staff Pharmacist, Mount Sinai Hospital 
Zoom link: Join Zoom Meeting

Upcoming dates: 

  • September 29
  • November 24
  • January 26* (virtual only)
  • March 30* (virtual only)
  • May 25

If you have any questions or would like to be added to mailing list, please email Brenda.O’[email protected] or call 416-586-4800 ext. 8349

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. Family members, friends and caregivers are all welcome as well.

Location: 18th Floor Auditorium, Mount Sinai Hospital, 600 University Avenue, Toronto, ON
Time: 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Upcoming dates (2025-2026): 

  • September 24
  • October 29
  • November 26
  • December 17
  • January 26
  • February 25
  • March 25
  • April 29
  • May 27
  • June 24

If you have any questions or would like to be added to mailing list, please email Brenda.O’[email protected] or call 416-586-4800 ext. 8349

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.