Worried about getting a job

[howarddavies]

I am currently out of work but am extremely nervous about the prospect of getting a job as my IBS is extremely unpredictable & I worry about getting a flare up while I'm in work. What can I do as I can't stay unemployed for the rest of my life?

[Forestina]

I fully understand how you feel and it must make you very anxious which could make it a vicious circle. I work in people's houses so experience the same difficulty myself.

Perhaps you could consider always having an Imodium with you to take on bad days. I also would consider an anti spasmodic. I am about to investigate peppermint oil as I have heard it can help.

It may be with these backups you feel more confident and the cycle eases.

Good luck.

[Eastbourne11]

Hi have you looked at the FODMAP sheets, look it up. I have been following this plan for three weeks and it's made a tremendous difference. And I am so grateful that the 2 doctors devised it. It's a matter of hidden sugars in food. I was so pleased that I bought the book which tells you why the gut rejects items leading to diarrhea. Do have a look - you have nothing to lose, you can get the book from the library and - you may get your life back! Good luck.

[one-n-den]

Hi Howard,

I’d second the suggestion of Imodium, too, but try and avoid using it too much, as I believe that it can become less and less effective with use.

I have used probiotics (Holland & Barrett Acidophilus- 3 billion) for a long time, with some success, and have recently started taking one Colpermin (peppermint oil) a day, which has improved things further. I take the Acidophilus first thing, with water, on an empty stomach - and the Colpermin about 10 minutes later, before breakfast.

I am retired, but often work as a volunteer with the local Wildlife Trust, literally miles from any toilet(!) and have so far had no ‘urgency’ issues - which I did before I started this regime.

My other hobby is SCUBA diving - I leave you to imagine the consequences of d. in a drysuit...

I hope this helps and that you find a routine that works for you.

[JammyOK]

Hi Howard,

I'm in a somewhat similar position. I've been working from home mostly for nearly 3.5 years doing an advanced degree. It's been lonely but much better for my IBS. I'm now coming to the end and need to get back into work, likely in an office environment. It's hard not to worry about what could be. When I get down in the dumps, about IBS or anything else, I can think quite worryingly about this prospect. But we're all in the same boat here and hopefully some suggestions will help you. The important thing is to take care of yourself physically and mentally.

Perhaps if you've not tried probiotics, peppermint or the Low Fodmap diet, start there. If you have already done those and still worry, temping is a good option as Choco says above - especially to ease back into FT work. If you are in the right environment, you may be able to tell your boss or HR, which might be necessary if you're seen to be away from your desk a lot. I've considered doing this the next time I have a FT job, as I had terrible out of control IBS when I last worked in an office. I was often away from my desk and worried how I was perceived because of that. But since then, I've also done the Low Fodmap diet and know my food triggers. No beans for me ever again... That's super helpful. I'm hoping my next office experience won't be so bad. Fingers crossed for you too.

Also, if stress is a trigger for you (it is for me too), start working on that too any way you can. I haven't done meditation but do deep breathing and work on my thinking patterns. I did a stint of CBT and that helped me become aware of my patterns of negative thought.

I second to definitely always have some Imodium on you. I carry some in a discreet pouch. Portable wet wipes are legit too. I'm happy to say I don't use Imodium as much anymore though. It's just for serious emergencies.

Good luck!

[poddysss]

I watched a documentary the other month about people who are 'unemployable '

I think the message is that IF you want that job and are the best person for that job then you will be accommodated more than you realise. I don't know what it is you do for a job, but give a great interview and Tell them the truth about the condition. You could maybe explain that you will put in the hours but maybe not in the same order as others. I think you maybe ought to contact someone about disability rights to check out what your rights are on employment. With a happy work environment you should feel mentally and physically better

Good luck

[howarddavies]

Thank you for all the replies. You've given me a lot to think about.

[Hidden]

I've just started a new job today and chose to tell them immediately. I was worried because it's childcare and a professional place so I know sometimes it's hard to leave the room (sometimes you phsyically can't when you're on your own with children) and I know a lot of places can be strict about their sick days or how long you spend in the toilet but the manager said she was glad I was honest and upfront about it and they'd work with me to do the best what they can do.

. Also helps that work is just round the corner from my house and I can go home at lunch, makes me feel more comfortable as there's only one toilet in the whole of work! Also I know it's a common one but maybe even a job where you can work from home if any take your fancy!