Stress is not a cause of Crohn’s disease. Crohn’s is a biological disorder, but stress can change how a person experiences and copes with their illness. Another condition, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is thought to be linked to emotional factors, and often there is confusion about the two conditions. However, while both occur in the digestive system, they are entirely different.

There is no evidence that a stressful event may trigger a flare or attack, although some people have reported getting flares after adverse life events.

Stress makes most medical conditions feel worse and may make the symptoms of Crohn’s disease seem even more severe.

Coping with any chronic disease can be stressful and Crohn’s is no exception to this. Dealing with the initial stages of a disease can be particularly stressful. Knowing that you are ill and not knowing the cause is very worrying.

It may take some time for a definite diagnosis and you may need to undergo hospital investigations. You may fear the worst. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have.

When you are diagnosed you may feel stress but for a different reason. Now you know the cause of your symptoms, but you probably do not fully understand what this means for your life in the future.

Receiving a diagnosis that you have a life-long disorder is difficult to come to terms with. At this point, talking to friends and family and educating yourself about Crohn’s disease should help to ease your concerns.

Stress is often caused by feeling out of control. Frank discussion and gathering information will help you to gain control of your illness.

Flares of active disease and frequent hospitalisations are also likely to cause stress during the course of your life with Crohn’s disease. So finding out about these episodes and what type of treatment they might entail can prepare you.

Reducing stress in your life will help you manage your disease. Talking to someone about the emotional and physical stresses of your disease and how you feel about them is important.

Relaxation, sleeping well, regular exercise and a good diet will all help reduce stress.
Particular relaxation techniques and breathing may also help.

Finding an activity that you like doing will make you feel relaxed and less stressed, and help you to better cope with life in general and your condition in particular.

Finding someone who also has Crohn’s disease or a similar condition and who empathises with what you are going through is likely to be helpful. Get involved in local or national support groups. Contact the Irish Association for Colitis and Crohn’s Disease at http://www.iscc.ie.