Psychological factors associated with inflammatory bowel disease

M. P. Eugenicos, N. B. Ferreira

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    Abstract

    BACKGROUND: Both depression and anxiety are identified as significant experiences in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD); whether these are a consequence of the disease or an active contributor to the disease remains controversial. This review aimed to identify and critique recent evidence regarding mental health in IBD. SOURCES OF DATA: PubmedⓇ, OvidⓇ, EmbaseⓇ, EBSCO PsychInfo and Google-Scholar were searched within the last 5 years (2016-2020). AREAS OF AGREEMENT: Overall, both depression and anxiety affect disease activity, relapse and healthcare utilization. AREAS OF CONTROVERSY: There is some controversy on whether depression and anxiety affect IBD outcomes differently depending on IBD subtype. GROWING POINTS: The data support the need for depression and anxiety assessment to be incorporated in the routine management of IBD patients; prompt psychiatric and psychological management may ultimately reduce disease activity, relapses and healthcare costs. AREAS TIMELY FOR DEVELOPING RESEARCH: More longitudinal research may further enlighten the role of depression and anxiety in IBD. Similarly, randomized controlled trials to investigate and clarify the effect of psychiatric/psychological management on IBD outcomes.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)16-28
    Number of pages13
    JournalBritish Medical Bulletin
    Volume138
    Issue number1
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 10 Jun 2021

    Keywords

    • anxiety
    • Crohn’s disease
    • depression
    • inflammatory bowel disease
    • ulcerative colitis

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