Real Talk

Real Talk

9 Things I Took for Granted Before Chronic Illness

When you’re healthy, you don’t think twice about enjoying a pain-free day or spontaneously staying over at a friend’s house. But with chronic illness, these simple pleasures become symbols of freedom — things you once took for granted and never thought you’d lose.

Real Talk

The Psychology of Misinformation: Why We Buy into BS

The internet means everything is at our fingertips, even misinformation. Here's why it spreads, plus how to protect yourself and your community.

Real Talk

Future Tense: I’m Still Young But Worry About Aging with Crohn’s

Crohn’s will inevitably affect my health as I age. Sometimes, I let my fears about that get the best of me. But in the end, the best I can do is live healthfully — and live fully present now.

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Medications Can Be a Hard Pill to Swallow Amidst Pressures to Heal Naturally

Pressures to “go the natural route” can feel overwhelming when living with chronic illness. Here’s why this can be dangerous.

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Am I Overidentifying with My Chronic Illness?

My illness is not my identity. Here's how I'm working to decouple them.

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Summertime Blues: When IBD Bloating and Body Image Issues Heat Up

It’s depressing and exhausting to be constantly thinking about how my body looks in summer’s skimpy outfits.

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It Happened to Me: A HIPAA Violation

HIPAA should protect your health information. Here's my experience of a HIPAA violation while receiving home healthcare.

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Why Being a ‘Good Patient’ Could Be Harmful to Your Health

Good patient syndrome can be a response to trauma. Those of us with chronic illnesses may exhibit people-pleasing behaviors to stay on doctors’ good sides, but that can ultimately endanger our health.

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Why Do I Poop Right After I Eat?

It's not unusual to feel the need to go 15 minutes to an hour after eating. It IS unusual if the need becomes especially urgent or watery.

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It’s OK to Feel Self-Pity with Chronic Illness

I usually try to focus on the positive and feel gratitude for how much my disease-modifying treatment has given back to me. But sometimes, during a flare, I wallow in self-pity. And that’s a perfectly natural reaction to loss.

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How to Find Control When It Feels Like Your Chronic Illness Makes All the Rules

It can easily feel like chronic illness makes all the rules. Here’s how I found control.

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Figuring Out Life with Multiple Chronic Illnesses: How I Did It

Take it from me, pacing yourself is key.

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The Honest Realities of Chronic Illness We Don’t Often Discuss

Here's how I've found ways to share unspoken realities in ways that feel right for me.

Real Talk

10 Ways to Find Support When You Live Alone with Chronic Illness

Living alone with a condition can be challenging, but there are people who want to help.

Real Talk

Social Media Can Be a Vital Connection for People with Chronic Illness

Social media is rife with scams, fake news, arguments with strangers, and other pitfalls. But for people who live with inflammatory bowel disease or other chronic illnesses, social media can be a lifeline, too.

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How Mainstream Brands Are Making Furniture Accessible for All

From beauty to fashion, industries have begun to make their products more inclusive. But what about furniture?

Real Talk

This Wise Little Narwhal Has Something to Teach Us All About Invisible Illness

Migraine representation in children's books is important for everyone, not just kids.

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How to Adapt to Life with an Incurable Condition

When we accept the painful parts of life, it can become more beautiful.

Real Talk

What You Don’t See in a Life with IBD

Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are invisible illnesses. That means that while some aspects of life with these conditions may be obvious, there's much that others won't see.

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I Moved to the U.K. for Crohn’s Healthcare

After I quit my job, which provided my health insurance, I needed to find a way to get the care I needed without going bankrupt — so I moved to England. The care is truly free, but it does have its drawbacks.

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I Tried IVF So I Could Get Pregnant with Active Crohn’s Disease

It's common to have fears about pregnancy with IBD. IVF seemed like the best choice for me, even if the timing wasn't.

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Crohn’s Gave Me the Weight Loss I Craved — and a Problematic Relationship with Food

After being diagnosed with Crohn's at age 12, I embraced the weight loss the disease brought, which soon led to disordered eating and body image issues.

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5 Promises I Made to Myself and How They’ve Changed

Some promises helped, but most had to change for me to live well with rheumatoid arthritis. Here's why and what they mean to me now.

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How to Respond to Chronic Illness Comments During the Holidays

These funny or serious responses can help combat well-intentioned yet sometimes misguided comments.

Real Talk

Colonoscopy Tips for First-Timers with IBD

The prep is the most uncomfortable part of getting a colonoscopy, so it might be helpful to know you can make it easier — and maybe even not that bad at all.

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The Truth About Chronic Illness and Fatigue

Fatigue is common in those living with chronic illnesses. But this symptom is often treated as an afterthought. Here's what you should know and what might help.

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I Got Skin Cancer — My Crohn’s Meds May Have Played a Part

Certain medications used to treat IBD increase our risk for skin cancer. The good news is that it's almost always highly treatable.

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My Crohn’s Remission Just Ended After 10 Years

My body was giving me signals that I misinterpreted. Now I understand the importance of listening to it, and taking time out for self-care.

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What Twitter’s Downfall Means for Chronic Condition Communities

The chronic condition community on Twitter has changed my life. I'm worried about what will happen without it.

Real Talk

5 Ways to Have More Control in Your Life with IBD

IBD dictates a lot of how and where we spend our time. But there's always something we can do to feel more in control. Here are my top 5 suggestions.

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IBD Ambassador Balances Advocacy for Self and Community 

Bezzy IBD Ambassador Danie talks about her diagnosis and managing advocacy.

Real Talk

Unhidden’s Founder Talks About Creating Clothes for Every Body

Providing dignity and identity to those living with disabilities is at the core of Unhidden's mission. Learn more about this adaptive clothing brand that featured at London Fashion Week.

Real Talk

Feeling Unseen and Unheard: Is This Medical Gaslighting or Something Else?

Not feeling fully supported in healthcare settings can be common. It's important to know why you might be feeling this way — whether from medical gaslighting or from limited medical resources — and what you can do about it.

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The Financial Strain of Life with Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis

eople with inflammatory bowel disease have double — or in some cases triple — the medical expenses of people without IBD. Some financial relief is available, but more advocacy work needs to be done.

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On World IBD Day, These 4 Advocacy Projects Will Directly Affect People with Crohn’s and UC

World IBD Day is a chance to raise awareness of the challenges people face with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. It's also a time when we can publicly advocate for better legislation and improved care.

Real Talk

Am I Oversharing? 8 Tips for Navigating Social Media with a Chronic Illness

There are no perfect answers for how much to share and how much to hold back, but there are guidelines that might help you determine the right approach for you.

Real Talk

8 Celebrities Living With Crohn’s Disease

More than half a million people in the United States live with Crohn’s, including some of the most well-known celebrities. Here’s how they manage the disease.

Real Talk

What It’s Like Being Chronically Ill in the Time of Wellness

Unsolicited medical advice is exhausting — and sometimes even plain rude. The wellness industry needs to wake up to the realities of living with a chronic illness.

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How Fatigue Changed My Mindset as a Disability Activist

Hustle culture and the pandemic made me hit a breaking point. I was exhausted, but being an activist made me want to fight on. Now, I live by a different mantra.

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How to Cope When the World Seems to Have Moved on from COVID-19

As public concern over COVID-19 wanes, many people who are immunocompromised are feeling left behind. Here are six tips for caring for your body and your mind during this time.

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How Chronic Illness Affects More Than Just Your Physical Health

The nonphysical effects of living with a chronic condition are often ignored or underestimated. We need to change that. These are nine ways that living with a chronic condition has affected my life and strategies I've found to help me cope.

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Ableist Language in Pop Culture and How It Affects People with Chronic Illness

Ableism and ableist language are all too common, especially in pop culture. Learn how to recognize this language and ways to be more mindful of the words you choose.

Real Talk

When Doing My Best to Manage My IBD Feels Like It’s Not Enough

The medical system reinforces the language of defeat. It's time for that to change.

Real Talk

I Have a Chronic Condition. Here’s Why I Hate New Year’s Resolutions

The unpredictability of living with a chronic condition can make it hard to stick with your plans. One writer shares why this year, she's saving herself the pressure and avoiding unrealistic resolutions.

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9 Ways Acute Illness Is Thought Of Differently Than Chronic Illness 

Living with chronic illness has made me aware of the many ways that society views chronic illness differently than they view acute illness.

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IBD Messed with My Body Image

After some difficult struggles, I've found my way back to a healthy relationship with my body. Here's how.

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Talking with Friends About Money Can Be Awkward When Your Condition Limits How Much You Work

Being asked to chip in for food or gifts can be stressful, especially if a chronic illness restricts the hours you can work. These tips can help navigate awkward conversations with friends.

Real Talk

When the Invisible Becomes Visible

When I could no longer hide the symptoms of my Crohn's disease from others, it forced me to become more authentic.

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The Way We Treat the Undiagnosed Needs to Change

Being undiagnosed is an under-acknowledged stage of living with chronic physical or mental symptoms.

Real Talk

5 Lessons from the Pandemic That Promote Inclusivity

We can continue to learn from the pandemic and encourage inclusivity in our everyday practices.

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My Journey to Becoming a Chronic Illness Advocate on Social Media

Writer Nia G. discusses her journey to becoming a social media advocate after her chronic illness diagnoses.

Real Talk

How My Crohn’s Diagnosis Taught Me Who My Friends Are

Chronic disease can take a toll on friendships. Here's how I discovered which friendships were worth fighting for.

Real Talk

What the Overturning of Roe v. Wade Means for the Chronically Ill and Disabled Communities

The court’s decision affects all Americans, but disabled, chronically ill, and disadvantaged people will be disproportionately affected. They face healthcare inequities, poverty, and more.

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Don’t Take Away My Methotrexate! How Roe v. Wade Has Changed Vital Medication Access

Overturning Roe v. Wade has far-reaching consequences for many communities — including access to needed medication like methotrexate.

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Recognizing Signs of Medical Trauma When You Live with a Chronic Condition

Medical trauma is real but sometimes it can be hard to recognize. If you live with a chronic condition it is especially important to be aware of how traumatic medical scenarios can have lasting effects. If you have experienced medical trauma, it is important to know you are not alone.

Real Talk

What I’ve Learned About Self-Advocacy When Living with a Chronic Condition

When living with a chronic condition or disability, finding and using your voice is a must.

Real Talk

Understanding Grief When It Comes to Your Chronic Condition or Disability

Having a chronic condition or disability can mean living without a lot of things. It’s important to talk about this grief and find ways to cope.

Real Talk

I Wish People Would Understand That IBD and IBS Are Not The Same

The effects they have on daily life are vastly different.

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Does Knowing Why You Got Sick Matter?

I have my theories about why I developed IBD, but I may never know the truth.

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I’m Not a Liar or a Victim. Talking About Your IBD Doesn’t Mean You’re Simply Seeking Attention or Pity

Learning to talk confidently about your IBD can lead to greater acceptance of your diagnosis and a stronger sense of personal identity.

Real Talk

We Need to Talk About Ableism and COVID-19

The issues that disabled and chronic condition communities face as a result of the pandemic are being ignored too easily.

Real Talk

How Therapy Can Help If You’re Living with a Chronic Illness

Finding the right therapist — one who understands life with chronic illness — can make all the difference.

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How I’m Making Peace with the Never-Ending Pandemic

Those of us living with a chronic condition are used to navigating an unknown future.

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What I Learned About Chronic Illness Coaches While Seeking Support for a New Diagnosis

Being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease left me feeling overwhelmed and alone. It was challenging to find the social and emotional support I needed.

Real Talk

Medical Gaslighting Is Real, and It May Have Happened to You

A patient’s word should be believed. You shouldn't need to fight to advocate for your health when you're feeling your worst.

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How I Balance Advocacy and Privacy Living with a Chronic Condition

Some days, sharing about my life with MS feels useful and authentic. Other times, I'd rather keep the details to myself.

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How I’ve Coped with Chronic Illness Throwing My Life Plans Out of Orbit

Being diagnosed with a chronic condition, like MS, can throw your life plans off course. Grieving the losses and finding ways to move forward is a process.

Real Talk

A Flare Does Not Mean You’ve Done Something “Wrong”

When you live with chronic pain, you can’t stop the weather, but you can learn to adjust your sails.

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Living with Undiagnosed Chronic Pain Is Hard, But Please Don’t Give Up

When you live with undiagnosed pain, self-advocacy, hope, and resilience are key.

Real Talk

IBD Re-Triggered My Disordered Eating, but I’m Taking Back Control

Living with inflammatory bowel disease makes it tough to have a positive relationship with food. This can be a slippery slope for someone with a history of disordered eating.

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Medical Burnout in People with Chronic Conditions Is Real — Here’s How to Cope

It’s important to address burnout as soon as possible to keep yourself healthy and happy.

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The Importance of Setting Boundaries When You’re Living with a Chronic Condition — and How to Get Started

Your energy is too precious to be wasted on plans and activities that don't serve your health.

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Working from Bed Isn’t Lazy — It’s Accessible

As a disabled person, working from bed makes it possible for me to have a job.

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How Living with Chronic Illness Has Helped Improve My Relationship with My Body

Whether you live with a chronic illness or not, living in a body is a complex experience.

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How to Rebuild Trust with Doctors After a Misdiagnosis

When it comes to living with a chronic condition, the doctor-patient relationship will be one of the most important connections you ever build.

Real Talk

5 Things to Do When You’re Feeling Defeated by Inflammatory Bowel Disease

When you live with IBD, it can feel like all your energy is going into figuring out the treatment, diet plan, and lifestyle changes that work for you. If you feel like giving up, these practices may help.

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Why I’m Striving to Change the Healthcare Experience for People of Color with IBD

After my long road to receiving a Crohn's disease diagnosis, I learned that race and implicit bias are huge factors in delayed diagnosis and misdiagnosis of Black and brown people with digestive diseases.

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How the Stress of Living in a Racist World Is Harming Black People with IBD

Our issues range from trigger foods to trigger news, and there's no prescription to alleviate the pain that often follows.

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This Is What It’s Like Being Young and Housebound After Multiple Surgeries for IBD

I never imagined the surgeries that were meant to give me more freedom would leave me housebound and lonely. If you can relate, just know you aren't alone.

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Why I Advocate: Grant’s IBD Story

Having support from people who understand is key.

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8 Tips for Navigating Difficult Times That I’ve Learned from Living With a Chronic Illness

There's tremendous wisdom to be gained from the experience of living with a chronic condition.

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Don’t Have the Energy for Zoom Happy Hours Right Now? Me Neither, and That’s OK

It can be hard to ignore internet pressure to have a “productive pandemic.”

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How I Learned to Release Shame and Embrace the Freedom of Adult Diapers for IBD

I am grateful to have a tool that gives me some much-needed freedom during bad ulcerative colitis flare-ups.

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Your Productivity Doesn’t Determine Your Worth. Here’s How to Let That Sink In

Despite what our culture may lead you to believe, you are so much more than a to-do list.

Real Talk

Inspiring Ink: 9 Crohn’s Disease Tattoos

Crohn’s causes a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, nausea, weight loss, and diarrhea. These can impact many aspects of a person’s life, which is why some people are choosing to get inked. We asked our readers to send us photos of their Crohn’s tattoos that are helping to inspire support and foster courage.