The emotional and social challenges of living with IBD, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, are top of mind for patients but not necessarily their health care providers. AGA surveyed 1,026 people aged 18-59 diagnosed with IBD and found that 63 percent reported comorbid conditions – including more than one in three who reported being diagnosed with anxiety (36 percent) and depression (35 percent). These rates of anxiety and depression are well above the U.S. national averages (19 and 8 percent respectively), and reports of anxiety have risen since a similar survey was conducted by AGA in 2017 (from 30 percent).
Despite the high rates of anxiety and depression among people with IBD, a companion survey of 117 gastroenterologists found that providers are more concerned about treating people with IBD physically than emotionally, and they often report mental health is sufficiently addressed in their patients’ IBD care. Review the survey report for additional information.
New patient resources
To help address these challenges and support people living with IBD, AGA launched My IBD Life, which was developed in partnership with people living with IBD and health care providers. Visit and share this web resource with your patients with IBD to help them live their best IBD life.
My IBD Life is supported by an independent grant from Bristol Myers Squibb.
