Psychological Considerations and Interventions in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patient Care

The presence of psychological comorbidities, specifically anxiety and depression, is well documented in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The drivers of these conditions typically reflect 4 areas of concern: disease impact, treatment concerns, intimacy, and stigma. Various demographic and disease characteristics increase risk for psychological distress. However, the risk for anxiety and depression is consistent throughout IBD course and is independent of disease activity. Early intervention before psychological distress becomes uncontrolled is ideal, but mental health often is unaddressed during patient visits. Understanding available psychological treatments and establishing referral resources is an important part of the evolution of IBD patient care.