Dr. Elizabeth Squirell · Gastroenterologist · Kingston Health Sciences Centre
Mental health, tiredness and IBD
Worry, low mood and deep tiredness are common with Crohn's and colitis. They are real, they have causes, and there is help.
Key points
- Anxiety, low mood and tiredness are common with IBD. They are not a weakness, and they are not your fault.
- Tell your IBD team if you feel worried, low or worn out. Ask them to check for inflammation and for low iron or vitamins.
- Getting your IBD under control often helps your energy and mood too.
- Talk therapy, such as CBT, can ease anxiety and low mood. In Ontario, adults can refer themselves to free CBT-based care through Ontario Structured Psychotherapy.
- Keep moving, even gently, and protect your sleep with a regular bedtime.
- Connect with others who have IBD. Crohn's and Colitis Canada has free peer support for adults.
- If you think about suicide, call or text 9-8-8, any time, day or night. If you are in danger now, call 9-1-1.
Go to emergency or call 911 if you have
- Thoughts of ending your life that you might act on (to talk to someone now, call or text 9-8-8)
- A plan, or the means, to hurt yourself
- A feeling that you cannot keep yourself safe
- Sudden severe tiredness with chest pain, trouble breathing or fainting
- Heavy bleeding from your bottom, or you feel faint or dizzy