Crohn's: Getting the Right Support

Dealing with any disease or ailment can be difficult. It can be worst when you feel like you're alone. Here are some of the online resources and support groups available for people who suffer from Crohn's Disease and Colitis:

Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America

The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America says it has more than 40 staffed and volunteer chapters, each with a volunteer board and Chapter Medical Advisory Committee. Along with educational seminars, educational materials and support groups, the CCFA chapters also hold national fundraising walks, endurance training programs and local and regional camps for kids. Visit their site at www.ccfa.org.

WeAreCrohns.org

WeAreCrohns.org is a "patient led social support network centered around Crohn's Disease and Colitis." Users can discuss their ordeals with Crohn's, share photos, exchange information and learn more about symptoms and treatments.

The Crohn's Disease Support Network

The Crohn's Disease Support Network was created in 2009 to help those suffering from Crohn's, as well as family and friends of Crohn's patients "connect with each other to offer support, awareness, and education." The site has groups, blogs, chats and even suggestions for others like a "Chron's kit." Visit them at www.crohnsdiseasesn.com.

MDJunction.com

At MDJunction.com, there exists online forums for people with Chron's. Many are individual users asking others questions and sharing their stories, which can be helpful for those needing support. Their site is www.mdjunction.com/crohn-disease.

DailyStrength.org

DailyStrength.org has an "Ask an Expert" forum where a primary care physician answers common questions about Crohn's and other gastrointestinal disorders. The site also has an online support group specific to Crohn's is available at www.dailystrength.org/c/Crohns-Disease-Ulcerative-Colitis/support-group.

CrohnsForum.com

CrohnsForum.com is a message board where registered users meet others who also have Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, and all other gastrointestinal and bowel related diseases and conditions.

Google Groups

Google Groups has a Chrons-Colitis specific support group where users post news regarding prescription medication, new research and personal questions. It can be found at http://groups.google.com/group/alt.support.crohns-colitis/topics?pli=1.

Facebook

Facebook has a user-based Crohn's group that aims to be "the best collection of shared knowledge on this topic." It's at http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Crohns-disease/105733269460821?ref=ts.

Words of Advice

When using online forums and resources, users should be cautious about what information they give out as well as what they take in. Here are a few tips to safeguard yourself when seeking help or advice on the Internet:

• Never give out personal information such as Social Security numbers, financial information, or home address to someone you don't know, especially in a forum where users pick a screen name. While anonymity might have its safeguards, it's where predators can lurk.
• Anonymous posting can also attract people who have no problem saying something they would never say to another person's face. If you feel you're being harassed online, contact the site's administrators or don't return to the site. Find one that is healthy and assuring and possibly with a forum moderator.
• Always check advice with your physician before using on your own. While someone on the Internet might have personal experience with something, a professional be consulted with health matters.