Dealing

Dealing With IBD At the Office

Know the Intensity of Your Symptoms

Less intense flare-ups are manageable at work. On the other hand, if your symptoms are severe, it is best to communicate with the management about your condition.

Request for Special Accommodation in Advance

It is important to ask for special accommodations in advance, whether your symptoms are mild or severe. These include a flexible work arrangement, sitting next to a toilet or bathroom, and taking time off to see a healthcare provider.

Talk to Management About the Work-From-Home Arrangement

If you are prone to intense flare-ups, I strongly advise you to talk to management about the work-fromhome-arrangement. This will help you control your symptoms without drawing attention. What’s more, it positively affects your productivity.

Prepare A Workplace Emergency Kit

Because flare-ups come without notice, it is important to have a survival kit. Your workplace emergency kit should include wet wipes, medications, a bottle of water, hand sanitizer, air freshener, and medications.

Learn How to Control Work-Induced Stress

There is no denying that work-induced stress can trigger flare-ups. To keep your mental health in good form, you may need to deliver your work in time and practice your relaxation techniques (think: meditation) or deep breathing exercises.

How To Communicate with Management About Your Needs

Tell the Management What It is Like to Suffer IBS

If the management doesn’t know what it is like to suffer from IBS, have an open and honest dialogue with them about the disorder.

Use Statistics and Facts

Statics and facts will increase the management’s understanding of your condition.

Suggest How the Organization Can Help You

If you are an IBS sufferer, the organization can help you by;

  • Providing IBS education to other colleagues
  • Giving you accommodations
  • Allowing you to work from home, especially if you are prone to intense flare-ups

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