Community Forum

Have a question, or want to share your own tips and experiences? Join the discussion in the community forum. You must be registered to participate. Our forums are moderated by Crohn's & Colitis Foundation staff to facilitate a safe environment.

stress and anxiety, what do I do?


Wed, January 05, 2011 8:08 PM

It seams that many people have expressed that during a flair they had and increase in stress and anxiety. it seams that some people have begun talking meds for their anxiety but I am not sure that I want to take any more meds. Does any one have any suggestions on how to deal with stress and anxiety? 


I have tried some different things that helped in the past but they don't seam to work when I am having a flair, especially a long lasting one. 

FPO mwunrow
Joined Nov 22, 2010

Sun, January 09, 2011 6:03 PM

 Reply posted for mwunrow.

As for the stress issue, my doctor recommended I take a Mind Body Stress Reduction course.  It has helped thousands of patients deal with the pain and stress of their diseases (heart attack, cancer, etc.) primarily through meditation and yoga.  If you google MBSR, you will be able to find more information.  Two books that were recommended to me were "Full Catastrophe Living" and "Wherever You Go, There You Are".  I had an orientation on Thursday; my group included two cardiac patients, a cancer patient, a person with a very bad disc problem, and a few people with autoimmune diseases.  I will begin the course on the 20th.  Hope you find this information helpful.

FPO christina
Joined Jul 13, 2008

Thu, January 06, 2011 5:01 PM

 Reply posted for mwunrow.

I've had the same issue and am trying to find a medicine that works for my anxiety. I struggled with the thought of taking yet another drug, but it has really helped. However, another thing that has really helped is doing yoga. Yoga is great for digestion and even now during a flare I find that I can do the poses and often they bring me relief from the bloating from the Crohn's. It has really helped with my stress level, though, way more than any other type of exercise. I also downloaded a meditation app on my Smartphone. 5 - 10 minutes of someone walking me through some mindful relaxation has also helped.

FPO teeps
Joined Jan 6, 2011

Thu, January 06, 2011 12:56 PM

 Reply posted for mwunrow.

my daughter just started a low dose of Elavil and it has really helped with her stress/anxiety.  She takes ativan when she is really, really stressed out as it has a direct effect on flares.

talk to your dr...there are many medications that can help you and that have been proven to help symptoms!

FPO mom2one
Joined Dec 5, 2010

Related Topics

Stunned by how much this ...
Author Image Alrightalright
Joined Sep 11, 2021



read more