Well-being

The Brain-Gut Connection
If you’ve ever “gone with your gut” to make a decision or felt “butterflies in your stomach” when you’re nervous, you’re likely getting signals from an unexpected source: your second brain. That's the brain-gut connection, and it's changing how doctors consider the links between digestion, health, and the way your mind works.
For someone living with UC, the signals can be disrupting. This can affect your psychological state and your emotional response.
74%
Did You Know?
According to a 2015-16 healthcare utilization analysis, adults with IBD were 74% more likely to have seen a mental health provider in the past 12 months compared with those without IBD.1

"Throughout my years of experience, I’ve come to see that the better equipped a patient is emotionally and mentally, the better they will be able to manage their disease in the long run."Laurie Keefer, PhD., Clinical Health Psychologist
Tips for Managing Stressful Situations
Know Your Triggers
Stress may cause flare-ups for people with UC, so it's important to keep track of what your triggers are so that you can take steps to minimize them
Take Some Downtime
Giving yourself dedicated downtime during the day may have an impact on your overall well-being. Taking the time you need to rest, may help you feel recharged and ready to do what you love, because living with UC shouldn't keep you from missing out on the things you enjoy
Preparing to Go Out
Consider using a bathroom finder app to map out bathrooms. Familiarize yourself with your surroundings so your symptoms don’t disrupt your plans
Being Out in Social Situations
Call restaurants ahead of time so they can accommodate you sitting close to bathrooms. Also check out the menus ahead of time, so you know what your options are
If you're outdoors, a quick online search may provide a list of the best public bathrooms in your area
Develop Healthy Coping Skills
Try different coping mechanisms to help manage stressful situations and anxiousness, like taking breaks from news stories, getting enough sleep, making time to unwind, and connecting with others
Considering Therapy: A therapist can be a valuable resource. Asking your doctor for a recommendation may be a good place to start.
New App Coming Soon:
LivingWith™ UC
The LivingWith™ UC app includes resources for overall wellness, with meditation and mindfulness exercises you can take wherever you go.
Planning Ahead
With a little planning, leaving home doesn’t have to be stressful and chaotic. Some ways to help put your mind at ease and be prepared in case of a flare-up include:
Making It Work At Work
- Keep an extra set of underwear, clothes, and moist wipes at your workstation
- Take occasional breaks from the job to clear your head
- Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day
- Speak up if you need help or some changes to your work situation so you can get the job done
Taking a Trip
- Share your “safe to eat” list with your friends and family ahead of time, and for business travel, check the menu in advance
- Map out rest stops along the highway
- Consider where you will sit as you’re traveling. An aisle seat on a plane or train may help you access the bathroom more easily
- Pack the following in your carry-on: spare clothes, wipes, pads, your medications and a list of what they do, doctor's contact information, and a letter from your doctor explaining your condition in case of emergencies
- Terlizzi EP, et al. Health care utilization among U.S. adults with inflammatory bowel disease, 2015–2016. National Health Statistics Reports 2021;152.