UC and Stress Management
Many individuals with UC identify stress as a trigger for colitis flares. While the mind-body connection remains somewhat elusive, there is strong evidence to suggest that stress contributes to physiologic changes in hormones and the immune system. As such, stress reduction is beneficial for maintaining an overall healthy balance in life. Some tips and ideas for management of stress from Helpguide.org include the following:
1) Learn how to adapt to stress
- Many things that happen in life are out of our control. Instead stressing out over things you cannot control, try to focus on how you can adapt and react to situations.
- Reach out to others and share your feelings.
- Focus on the positive. While it is difficult to see the positive aspects of stressful situations, many people skilled at dealing with stress are able to use such situations as opportunities for personal growth.
2. Adopt a healthy lifestyle
- Regular exercise has been shown to be beneficial for stress management. In general, there are no exercise restrictions placed on UC patients outside of serious flares or recent surgeries.
- Eat a balanced diet and reduce caffeine and sugar. The swings that come with caffeine and sugar ingestion may leave you feeling fatigued when the effects wear off.
- Obtain adequate and restful sleep. The restorative properties of sleep help provide both physical and mental rest for our bodies.
3) Nurture yourself
- Set aside time for relaxation. Whether you enjoy massage, acupuncture, exercise, or simply going for a walk, it is important to set aside time for yourself to relax.
- Connect with others. Having a strong support network provides a buffer in stressful times.
- Do something you enjoy everyday.