Living with IBS and struggling with work attendance and mental health

Shahima1998
Shahima1998 Community Member Posts: 3 Listener
in Work

Hi everyone, I wanted to share my situation because I’ve been feeling really overwhelmed lately and wondered if anyone else has been through something similar.

I suffer from IBS, and during flare-ups, it affects me badly both physically and mentally. The symptoms can become unpredictable and severe, which has made work really difficult for me. I’ve been off sick for a while, and I’m now due to return on a phased return, but honestly, I feel anxious and scared about going back too quickly.

One of the hardest parts is that people often don’t realise how much IBS can impact daily life. It’s not “just a stomach issue” — it can affect energy levels, stress, confidence, sleep, and mental health too. The stress and pressure around work attendance have also been making my symptoms worse.

I’ve recently spoken to my GP and Occupational Health, but I still feel worried about balancing my health with work expectations and finances. I’m trying my best to recover properly without pushing myself too hard.

I just wanted to ask:

  • Has anyone else experienced IBS affecting their ability to work?
  • Did a phased return actually help you?
  • How do you cope with the anxiety/stress side of chronic health conditions?

Would really appreciate hearing from anyone who understands. Thank you 🤍

Comments

  • Community_Scope
    Community_Scope Posts: 2,437 Online Community Team

    Hi @Shahima1998

    We're going to send you an email in a while, please look out for it😊

  • Shahima1998
    Shahima1998 Community Member Posts: 3 Listener

    Hi Mary,

    Thank you for your message and for checking in on me.

    I honestly just feel like I’m not really being heard at the moment. I have already spoken to my GP multiple times and they have referred me for mental health support through services such as Maximus. I am currently going through therapy/counselling, but lately I’ve been feeling extremely overwhelmed and emotional and have been crying a lot because everything feels unresolved.

    A big part of my anxiety right now is returning to work on the 26th May while I’m still struggling with my IBS symptoms and mental health. I’m scared about going back when I still don’t feel fully supported or recovered properly.

    I really appreciate you reaching out and listening to me.

    Kind regards,
    Shahima

  • Shahima1998
    Shahima1998 Community Member Posts: 3 Listener
    edited May 24

    My full name is Shahima

    (Removed by moderator)

  • Amazonianup
    Amazonianup Community Member Posts: 171 Empowering

    Hi,

    You can wear diapers if you need the for emergency so if you can manage pain but it doesnt stop pain but if you need to do things then atleast you dont have and accident and its visible if you get urgency flare ups and you keep going and it feels like you need to go or a radar key. I dont have one as i try keep my trips short. Sometimes flare ups can last a while and sometimes they are short nature helps with pain and no people i think anxiety can make it worse.

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