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If you're friends with someone living with the condition, you may want to find ways to help them, show that you understand, and help them to feel accepted and included when they may need adjustments in order to take part in activities you've planned. There's lots of little ways you can show your support and make their experience that little bit easier.
Someone I'm friends with
Our animation about friends living with Crohn's and Colitis
It's great that you want to support your friend living with Crohn's or Colitis. Sometimes it can be tricky for them opening up about their condition, so our animated video shows how they might be feeling about sharing their experiences with you, and how you can help.
Living with Crohn's or Colitis
Our Living with Crohn's or Colitis hub offers information on the conditions and advice for the newly diagnosed, as well as information on topics such as mental health, travelling, smoking, pregnancy, food and more. Reading this information can help you understand what your loved one might be experiencing so you can support them in little ways that may have big impacts.
We worked with researchers at Edge Hill University to create a guide on supporting your friend with Crohn's or Colitis.
Supporting your friend (PDF)
This page includes everything from key facts about supporting people living with either condition, as well as tips to help, ways to look after yourself, and sources of support if you need them.
Supporting someone
Read our blog from Ciara, who explains how her friends and family supported her as she changed the way she socialised after her diagnosis. It might give you some ideas of ways you can help your friend, and things to consider when planning a trip out together.
Tips for socialising
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The most important thing to me is for people just to be understanding.
In My Shoes
Our In My Shoes app simulates a day in the life of someone in a Crohn's or Colitis flare. It can help you really understand what your friend might be going through and give you ideas of ways you can support them, whether it's tweaking plans, making them a hot water bottle or lending an ear. You can find out more about how to use the app on our In My Shoes for people living with Crohn's or Colitis page, or download the app and get stuck in with the links below.
Virtual Social Events
Want to meet people living with Crohn's or Colitis, or supporting those who do? We'd love to see you at one of our virtual social events!
Want to get more involved?
Join our growing network of friendly, passionate volunteers!
About Crohn's and Colitis
Ways to get involved
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Helpline Service
Last updated: 22/07/2026
Our Helpline team can't take calls, chats or ring you back for the rest of the summer. But you can still reach us by email.
If you need to contact the team, please email helpline@crohnsandcolitis.org.uk and we'll answer you as soon as possible.
Thanks for bearing with us.
How Can We Help?
- We can help you understand Crohn’s and Colitis
- Listen and talk about living with IBD
- Help you connect with others in the Crohn’s and Colitis community
- Give you contact details of specialist organisations
- We can support you to live well with Crohn’s or Colitis and provide up-to-date, evidence-based information
Please be aware we’re not medically or legally trained. We cannot provide detailed financial or benefits advice or specialist emotional support.
If you need specific medical advice about your condition, your GP or IBD team will be best placed to help.
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