Psychological factors associated with inflammatory bowel disease

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.