Coping

Whether you are queer, gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, or anything in between, living with IBD as an LGBTQ person is difficult - from navigating bathrooms to navigating the bedroom. Here’s some things to remember when things get tough.

Establishing a therapeutic relationship with a trusted mental health professional may be helpful, to process and cope with roadblocks and barriers - being denied using the restroom because of your gender identity to navigating limitations on your sexual life and the psychological impacts of these difficulties

  • Let someone know (your physician, a trusted friend, a therapist) if things are becoming harder mentally - this disease is a lot to take on alone!

  • Some IBD treatments can have effects on your mood (i.e. high doses of Prednisone) and things like anemia can also affect how you feel mentally - let your doctor know if you begin to notice changes in your mood or mental health
  • If you are feeling down/ low libido - this is something that is not unusual in people with IBD. Low sex drive when you have IBD can be from:
  • Fear of experiencing symptoms during sex.
  • Symptoms during a flare-up affecting how attractive you feel.
  • Lower testosterone levels as a result of taking steroid or opiate medicines, or with inflammation.
  • Low body image and self-esteem.
  • Depression or anxiety.
  • Side effects of medicines used to treat depression and anxiety (SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, etc)
  • Fatigue!
  • Finding community with other LGBTQ+ people with IBD may be helpful, to share experiences and know you are not alone. Someone may have tips and tricks that can help get through the hard days.
  • It’s okay to not be okay - but it will get better!  Times are tough, but you are tougher.
  • Living with Crohn’s and Colitis can really affect our body image and self esteem, especially if you are LGBTQ+.  It  can be really hard sometimes, but it is important to remember the positive things - you have made it this far, and you will make it so much farther. Think about the positive things about yourself - you are strong! 
  • Remember you are cherished and supported as a member of the IBD & LGBTQ+ community - you are important and you matter! You are not alone in your struggles. This disease can be isolating, don't hesitate to reach out to others for support and never be afraid to ask for help.

  • Being LGBTQ+ and having IBD is not easy - but you will find someone who loves you and cherishes you just as you are.