Talking with Family and Friends

Use the following questions to talk about your condition with your family and friends.

Questions family and friends may ask you

What is Crohn’s disease?

If you have Crohn’s, does that mean that one of us (i.e., children or siblings) will have it too?

How did you get Crohn’s disease?

How is Crohn’s disease treated?

What are your symptoms like?

Can still we hug you or show you affection? How about when you have symptoms?

What can we do to help you manage your condition?

How can we support you emotionally as you cope with Crohn’s disease?

Is there some kind of diet you have to follow?

Are we responsible in any way for your condition? (A possible question from younger children)

Can you still do things with us, such as activities, sports, or vacations?

Where can we get more information about Crohn’s disease?

Questions you may want to ask family and friends

What do you already know, if anything, about Crohn’s disease?

Does it upset you or make you uncomfortable to know that I have Crohn’s disease?

Does it bother you to think that because I have Crohn’s disease you might also develop it? It’s not certain, but does the sheer possibility bother you?

What scares you about my condition?

What would you like to understand more about my symptoms or how it feels to have Crohn’s disease?

Is it your impression that I can’t do things with you anymore, such as activities, sports, or vacations?

Would you like more information about Crohn’s disease?