Managing Relationships

Understanding your ulcerative colitis (UC) diagnosis and adopting a plan to reach your treatment goals is an important first step. Eventually, though, you’ll want or need to talk to others in your life about your condition.

Surveys show that most people know little or nothing about UC until they or someone they know is diagnosed. It’s up to you to decide what you’re comfortable telling your friends and relatives.

You may want to suggest resources, such as this Web site, to help them educate themselves on the issues and concerns related to your UC. A good place to begin is the section of this site that discusses the basics of ulcerative colitis.

Carol Rice is a passionate UC advocate who moderates for an ulcerative colitis forum on HealingWell.com, an organization that provides support for people with ulcerative colitis. Diagnosed with UC at age 45, she is recently married. See what Carol has to say about why opening up to family and friends may help you have stronger, more supportive relationships.

We also asked Carol, who works as a small-business administrator for a large aerospace company, about UC in the workplace. Find out why she thinks talking about UC with your boss can help you get the accommodations you need to be productive.

This material is not intended to replace conversations with your health care professional team. If you have questions, comments, or concerns about your condition, please speak to your doctor or nurse.