Toilet Anxiety

This anxiety is real and I think all of us experience this. I have been doing this for a very long time and I still get anxious. For the first 10 - 20 years I would always know where there were washrooms, no matter where I was going, just in case. Many times I just didn't go if there was no washroom access. There are apps but I never used them.
I always planned ahead even if it was an unplanned trip, I still checked where there were washrooms. Yes it is an anxious time and like I said, I still get anxious, but not as bad as I used to be.
I now have an ostomy so it is a little bit easier but I am always on the lookout for washrooms. You know you have IBD when the first thing you do when you are out is scope the area for a washroom LOL.
For long trips like flying or road trips, I just don't eat. I only drink water to make me "feel" full. I am not recommending it, it just works for me so I don't worry or get anxious about having to use the washroom.
Vern - IBD Team Member

This is a great question . As you can see through this article, there is a connection between our mind and gut so worrying about finding a bathroom can make the symptoms worse (a vicious cycle for sure!)
https://inflammatoryboweldisease.net/living/gut-brain-axis

And this article may help offer some guidance on ways to cope when experiencing diarrhea and stress in public:
https://inflammatoryboweldisease.net/living/flare-diarrhea



Hope this helps!


--Julie (Team Member)

Hi . As you can see, others here understand your issues and anxiety. Just to follow up on what Vern said, this article from Kelly J discusses apps, including one for locating public restrooms: https://inflammatoryboweldisease.net/living/smart-devices-accessibility. Hope this information is helpful and please know that this community is here for you. Best, Richard (Team Member)