Don’t be afraid to ask for help, there’s plenty of support available
Communicating with your healthcare team
An open, honest relationship with your doctor can help ensure you receive the tailored care that you need. You are likely to see several healthcare professionals throughout your ulcerative colitis (UC) treatment journey, as each will specialise and focus on supporting you in different areas, including:1
Your Gastroenterologist
Has a wealth of clinical experience in treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and other conditions that affect the gastrointestinal tract and liver. They should always be your first port of call with any questions about your condition or your treatment plan. They can explain your treatment options and how they work, as well as address any queries and concerns you may have.
Your GP
Can advise you on other aspects of your ongoing health and wellbeing. They will work closely with your gastroenterologist and can help you access other support services.
Accredited Practising Dietitian
Can give you practical dietary advice based on your sensitivities, nutritional deficiencies, bowel strictures, stomas, etc. Ask your gastroenterologist for a referral to an IBD-specialised dietitian.
Specialist IBD nurse
Can provide information and guidance on aspects of living with IBD. They can help you build a personalised care plan and assist with your ongoing medical tests.
Other specialists who can help
- Psychologist – To help you deal with the emotional strain of living with IBD.
- Pharmacist – Can give you information about interactions between RINVOQ and other medicines and help you choose over-the-counter products that may help with symptoms.
- Colorectal surgeon – Specialises in surgical treatment for IBD, if ever needed.
- Stomal therapist – Helps care for those with an ostomy (bag) due to IBD related surgery.
Make the most out of your appointments by preparing a list of any questions you may have in advance and don’t be afraid to take notes so you can refer to them later.
Family and friends
It may seem like the easy option to tell friends and family “I’m fine” even when you’re not. Being honest and open with your family and friends about your IBD may help them better understand your condition and provide the support you may need.
Family and friends are all good sources of practical, everyday support. People are usually happy to help with little jobs to help take the pressure off you. For example, you could ask a friend to give you a lift to your appointments. They can also offer an emotional outlet where you can not only voice your feelings but gain a new perspective on issues that may be troubling you.
Support at work
Not everyone at your work will be familiar with your condition or realise how it may affect your everyday life. If your colleagues are aware of your needs, it may be easier for them to understand why some days might be harder for you than others. Don’t be surprised if you find others start to open up about some of their own challenges, if and when they are ready to do so.
Talk to your manager
- It can be a good idea to keep your manager, employer or HR manager updated about your condition (if you feel comfortable discussing it)
- Let your manager or employer know early on about upcoming healthcare appointments so it gives them time to make any necessary arrangements
- You can ask for modifications that could help you perform more effectively at work such as flexible hours or working from home (if this is an option for you)
- You can find more practical tips on talking to your employer about your IBD on the It Takes Guts page
Talk to your colleagues
- Talking to colleagues about the fact that you’re living with IBD may help them understand more about your condition
- Having someone that you are close to at work that you can talk to if you are having a bad day may help
Social Life
Dealing with symptoms that may make you self-conscious, along with the challenges of settling into a new treatment regimen, can take a toll on your social life. But once you’re settled on your new treatment, how can you begin picking things up again?
You can start by building up slowly. You might invite a friend over for a chat. If that goes well, perhaps you could meet a small group of friends at a cafe next time.
Support from your partner
If or when you need to discuss with your partner, be open about the support you may need from them. For example, you may need help with household tasks like cleaning up the kitchen or changing your bedsheets.
Physical intimacy may be challenging at times for those living with IBD, so having an open and honest conversation with your partner about this may help them to be more understanding of your feelings and needs.
Community support: You’re not alone!
If it’s any comfort, you’re not alone; IBD affects people young and old, from all walks of life. Now you can meet some of them and read their stories.
Support in a crisis
- Call Lifeline and talk to someone who understands on 13 11 14 now.
- Contact Beyond Blue. Gain further support for managing things like anxiety and depression here.
- Also speak to your healthcare professional who can put you in touch with professional psychological help.
Reference: 1. Crohn’s and Colitis Australia. My partner in care. Available from: crohnsandcolitis.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/CCA_MyPartnerInCare2019.pdf Accessed: August 2025. AC-005092-00. AU-RNQ-250069. August 2025.