Coping with Inflammatory Bowel Disease’s (IBD) Physical, Mental, and Behavioral Health Implications

Thrive • December 20, 2022

A diagnosis that affects 1.3% of adults in the U.S., inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can affect physical, mental, and behavioral health. The gastrointestinal condition may also lead to disordered eating and eating disorders. Those with IBD may benefit from a comprehensive treatment approach that holistically addresses their symptoms.

IBD, CROHN’S DISEASE, AND ULCERATIVE COLITIS

Characterized by persistent swelling within the intestines, IBD is a broad term that refers to two different chronic digestive conditions, which are:

  • Crohn’s disease: Can involve any part of the digestive tract; associated with swelling throughout multiple layers of the walls of the gastrointestinal system. 
  • Ulcerative colitis: Affects only the large intestine and rectum with inflammation presenting in the innermost layer of the lining of the colon. 

Unlike inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS) , IBD involves structural abnormalities within the gastrointestinal system, while IBS is associated with functional complications within the digestive tract. Because the structural abnormalities caused by IBD are visible, clinical tests are typically able to detect the condition. IBS is not discernible on tests.  

SYMPTOMS OF IBD

IBD is a severe illness that can disrupt a person’s life. Symptoms of IBD include:

  • Abdominal pain constipation 
  • Bloating
  • Diarrhea
  • Fatigue
  • Malnutrition
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Weight loss

CAUSES OF IBD

Researchers don’t fully understand the causes of IBD. Still, the condition is possibly linked to a deficiency in the way the immune system reacts to harmful substances in the digestive system. IBD may also be associated with:

  • Family history of digestive issues
  • Disturbance in the balance of bacteria in the large intestine
  • Psychological factors including, stress, anxiety , and depression

HOW IBD AFFECTS MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

IBD’s implications aren’t limited to physical struggles. Those with IBD may face an increased risk for:

  • Depression : The potentially debilitating symptoms of pain and fatigue in addition to social stigmas and a sense of isolation can contribute to feelings of depression. 
  • Stress and anxiety : IBD can make it difficult to carry out daily activities due to distressing digestive symptoms. 
  • Self-image struggles: IBD can lead to feelings of shame and body dissatisfaction, harming a person’s relationship with themself and their body.
  • Substance abuse : Those with IBD may turn to alcohol and drugs to cope with the mental and emotional struggles stemming from the condition. 
  • Disordered eating : IBD can contribute to restrictive eating behaviors that can become ingrained. 

IBD AND EATING DISORDERS

The relationship between IBD and eating disorders warrants further research. However, the many commonalities between IBD and eating disorders are well-established. The conditions share symptoms of weight loss, gastrointestinal issues , malnutrition , and immune system dysregulation . Because of their similarities, it can be difficult to distinguish whether an eating disorder or IBS is the cause of a person’s symptoms. In cases where IBD and eating disorders coexist , each condition can exacerbate the other. 

Those with IBD may also engage in disordered eating behaviors to control their symptoms. For individuals psychologically predisposed to eating disorders, IBD can contribute to the development of an eating disorder. 

MANAGING IBD

Although IBD has no known cure, the condition can be managed with medical care and therapeutic support. Medical treatment may involve medications, surgery, and other interventions. In regards to mental and behavioral health, modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based therapies have been shown to help those with IBD .

MIND-BODY CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH IBD

At Thrive Wellness, our interdisciplinary team of primary care providers, mental health professionals, registered dietitians, and other health care specialists are dedicated to providing integrated treatment to those struggling with their well-being, including those with IBD. Through care that encompasses the whole person, individuals with IBD can develop healthy strategies for coping with any physical and psychological struggles related to their condition. Reach out to learn more about our comprehensive health services.

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December 2, 2025
Like the fir tree, a symbol of endurance rooted in hope, our Family Inclusive Recovery (FIR) approach reflects the strength that grows when families face challenges together. At our new residential center “The Greenhouse”, FIR is more than a treatment model, it’s a philosophy of healing that places families at the heart of recovery for adolescents and young adults navigating eating disorders, anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). We believe lasting healing doesn’t happen in isolation; it’s built with the support of families through perseverance, hope, and compassionate care. What Is Family Inclusive Recovery (FIR)? Family Intensive Recovery (FIR) is a specialized and immersive approach that actively engages caregivers as central agents in their child’s healing process. Rather than seeing families as contributors to a problem, we view them as essential partners in recovery. Drawing from two evidence-based frameworks, Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE) and Family-Based Treatment (FBT), FIR helps families cultivate resilience, confidence, and connection throughout the journey to recovery. Grounded in SPACE and FBT Through the SPACE model, parents learn how to recognize and reduce well-intentioned but unhelpful behaviors known as accommodations that can reinforce anxiety and OCD symptoms. By shifting from rescuing to supporting and challenging, parents develop the confidence to guide their child through discomfort, helping them build distress tolerance and self-trust. Simultaneously, Family-Based Treatment (FBT) empowers families to take an active, compassionate role in their child’s nutritional and emotional recovery. Parents learn how to support weight and nutritional restoration, disrupt the eating disorder’s patterns, and reestablish boundaries that promote health and growing autonomy. Together, these approaches strengthen both the individual and family system, allowing recovery to take root within an environment of empathy and optimism. From Blame to Collaboration A cornerstone of the FIR model is removing blame. At Thrive, parents are not viewed as the cause of their child’s struggles, but rather as key partners in recovery. Treatment focuses on joining forces to create a safe, supportive environment where: Families learn to sit with their child's discomfort alongside them without rushing to fix or control it. Parents practice compassionate firmness, setting boundaries grounded in care and safety. Teens and caregivers rebuild trust through open, honest communication. This collaborative framework helps families reestablish a sense of connection and confidence, fostering long-term resilience and open communication that extends beyond the treatment setting. Why Family Matters in Recovery Recovery from eating disorders, OCD, or anxiety isn’t a one-person job, it requires integrated care including the family. When families learn to navigate challenges together, they can model emotional regulation, reinforce healthy boundaries, and create conditions for sustained recovery. Through FIR, we aim to strengthen attachment bonds, reshape family interactions, and empower every member of the family to grow. The result is not only symptom reduction but also a deeper sense of unity, hope, and shared endurance, just like the steadfast fir tree that stands resilient through every season. Moving Toward Hope Family Inclusive Recovery invites caregivers and loved ones to become active participants in change. It’s a journey of learning, letting go, and leaning into love and acceptance. Together, families and clinicians can cultivate the courage in clients to face uncertainty, and in doing so, help them discover that recovery is not just possible, but enduring. If you’d like to learn more about Family Intensive Recovery at The Greenhouse or how we support families in eating disorder and OCD treatment, reach out to our team today.
November 14, 2025
The Greenhouse at Thrive Wellness A New Chapter of Hope and Healing in Nevada On Friday, November 14 , we gathered with our partners at Molina Healthcare to share an important moment for our community. Together, we celebrated Molina’s generous $50,000 grant , an investment that is helping bring The Greenhouse to life. Their support is not only a financial contribution—it’s a statement of belief in the young people and families of Nevada who deserve access to compassionate, evidence-based mental healthcare close to home. This gathering marked the beginning of something we’ve dreamed about for years: a place designed specifically for adolescents and emerging adults to receive the care, connection, and support they need during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Something New Is Growing In early 2026 , Thrive Wellness will open The Greenhouse , Nevada’s first residential treatment center devoted to adolescents and emerging adults navigating eating disorders, anxiety, and OCD . For too long, families have faced a heartbreaking dilemma—send their child far from home for treatment or go without the specialized care they need. The Greenhouse is our answer to that gap. It will be a place where young people can settle into an environment built for healing, where they are understood, supported, and surrounded by a team that believes in their capacity to recover. The Greenhouse represents a natural extension of our mission. It’s a living expression of our belief that recovery is possible—and that with the right support, families can find their footing again. 
November 11, 2025
Are you looking for a meaningful way to give back this holiday season? Thrive Wellness is excited to continue our 6th Annual Giving Tree Program in collaboration with Perenn Bakery this winter. This year, Thrive Wellness Reno and Perenn Bakery are proud to partner with Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Northern Nevada. The organization supports families with children receiving treatment at area hospitals, providing comfort, hope, and a home-away-from-home during challenging times. Ronald McDonald House Charities offers essential services, removes barriers, strengthens families, and promotes healing when children need healthcare the most. How It Works Simply take one (or a few) tags from the Giving Tree, each listing an item you can purchase and donate for residents of the Ronald McDonald House. Then, drop off your item(s) at one of our designated donation locations by Friday, December 19. Items Needed: Restaurant gift cards Walmart or Target gift cards Games, puzzles, and coloring books Toys (Barbie, Hot Wheels, Lego sets, craft sets, magnet blocks, baby dolls, action figures, journals, infant toys, etc.) Children's books (picture, chapter, and graphic novels) Toiletry sets (for adults) Lotion/self-care gift sets (for adults) Sweatshirts/hoodies (adults, XS-XXL) Scarves, gloves, fuzzy socks, pajamas (all sizes) Infant diapers, onesies, and baby bottles Bulk individually wrapped snacks (granola bars, chips, etc.) Please ensure all donations are new, in original packaging, and unwrapped. Donation Drop-Off Locations Please deliver donations by Friday, December 19, to one of the following sites: Thrive Wellness 201 W Liberty St., Suite 201, Reno, NV 89501 Perenn Grocery 7600 Rancharrah Pkwy, Suite 130, Reno, NV 89511 The first 50 people to return their donations will receive a complimentary ornament gift!  Why We Give Back Through our Giving Tree program, we’re honoring one of our core values at Thrive Wellness: staying rooted in community. This annual tradition allows us to give back to those who need support most during the holiday season. We invite you to join us by taking a tag at any Thrive or Perenn location and helping spread kindness throughout our community. There’s no better way to embrace the holiday spirit than by supporting local families with thoughtful, heartfelt donations. We are deeply grateful for your generosity and continued support. Thank you for helping us make a difference!
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