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Real members of myIBSteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Telling New Friends?

A myIBSteam Member asked a question 💭
Aberdeen, UK

Hi, I have recently relocated to another country. How soon do you explain your illness to new friends? I’m going to run out of excuses to meet up with them soon 😳
I also have fibromyalgia so have flare ups with that also,so double the cancellations!

October 23, 2017
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Answer Summary

Members overwhelmingly encouraged being honest with new friends about chronic illness right away, emphasizing that true friends will... Read more

Members overwhelmingly encouraged being honest with new friends about chronic illness right away, emphasizing that true friends will understand even if they don't fully grasp the unpredictability of conditions like IBD and fibromyalgia. Several members shared painful experiences of losing friendships due to misunderstanding or lack of compassion, including friends who didn't accept the need for bathroom access or resented illness-related weight loss, while others described supportive circles who help accommodate dietary needs and respect last-minute cancellations. A recurring theme was the emotional toll of managing both the physical symptoms and the social anxiety of disappointing others, balanced by the relief and freedom that comes from surrounding yourself with people who accept you as you are, flare-ups and all.

A myIBSteam Member

Tell them truthfully how difficult this can be ! Even then, I find many people believe it’s like a 24 hour stomach virus and you should be able to overcome it and be fine ! Some will never understand how IBD diseases affect you forever, come and go in intensity, but never leave you ! Just do the best you can, people who care will try to understand

June 3, 2018
A myIBSteam Member

If you explain to your friends what is happening they won't pressure you....they may not understand at first but in time they will....my friends always wanted me to take extra medicine so I could eat the things that they were....! I went through being depressed...asking myself why me! Just be honest...that's the best thing!

February 23, 2018
A myIBSteam Member

I tell my friends. It is a part of who I am, and they need and do accept me for me. Unfortunately, IBS is a part of me. Most of my friends know what triggers it as well.

February 20, 2018
A myIBSteam Member

Tell them right away

November 7, 2017
A myIBSteam Member

Yea I’m with Patricia tell them straight away

November 2, 2017

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