Scripts, protections, and confidence for navigating the workplace with a chronic condition
Written by Dr. Antonia Repollet
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Certified School Psychologist
GI Psychology
Living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)—whether Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis—can feel unpredictable, isolating, and exhausting. Flare-ups, fatigue, urgency, and pain don’t always respect work hours, meetings, or deadlines. Talking to your employer about IBD may feel overwhelming, but here’s the truth: you have rights. And you deserve to feel safe and supported in your workplace.
This guide will walk you through how to navigate that conversation, understand your legal protections, explore common accommodations, and build confidence in your ability to advocate for yourself with clarity and care.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
Many people with IBD don’t realize they’re legally protected in the workplace. Let’s change that.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The ADA defines a disability as any condition that substantially limits one or more major life activities—including digestion, mobility, and self-care (US EEOC, n.d.). IBD can qualify, and that means you’re entitled to reasonable accommodations and protection from discrimination at work.
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
If you’re eligible, the FMLA allows up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year for medical reasons—including IBD flares, procedures, and recovery periods (US Department of Labor, n.d.).
State-Level Protections
Many states offer short-term disability benefits or additional protections. It’s worth checking with your state labor department or a disability rights organization.
How to Prepare for the Conversation
Deciding whether or not to disclose your diagnosis at work is deeply personal. There’s no “right time”—only the right time for you.
Here are some questions to guide you:
- Have your symptoms started impacting your performance or schedule?
- Do you trust your direct supervisor or HR department?
- Would accommodations make your job more manageable?
What You Can Say (And What You Don’t Have To)
You’re not required to share your full medical history. Focus instead on how your condition affects your work and what would help.
Here are a few conversation starters you can adapt to your comfort level:
For HR or a supervisor:
“I’ve been managing a chronic medical condition that can sometimes affect my energy and schedule. I’m committed to my work and wanted to explore some accommodations that would help me continue performing at my best.”
To request flexibility:
“On days when I’m not feeling well, a flexible start time or the option to work remotely would help me manage symptoms while still meeting expectations.”
To request extra bathroom breaks:
“I occasionally need additional restroom access throughout the day due to my condition. I’d appreciate flexibility and privacy as needed.”
Getting Support from Your Medical Team
You don’t have to navigate workplace accommodations alone. Your medical providers can be powerful allies in this process.
Ask for a Letter of Medical Necessity
If you’re requesting formal accommodations through HR or a disability office, a letter from your healthcare provider can help validate your request. It doesn’t need to disclose personal details—just enough to confirm that:
- You have a chronic medical condition (IBD)
- Your condition may require specific work-related accommodations
- These accommodations are medically necessary to support your ability to work
Many gastroenterologists, primary care physicians, and gut-brain therapists are familiar with this type of documentation and can tailor it to your work needs.
What to Include in the Letter (Sample Template):
- Your name and date of birth
- Confirmation of IBD diagnosis
- Brief note on impact (e.g., fatigue, urgency, pain, medical appointments)
- Recommended accommodations (see next section for specifics)
- Contact information for the provider in case of verification needs
Pro Tip:
Ask your doctor to use functional, workplace-friendly language. For example:
“Due to episodic gastrointestinal symptoms, [Patient] may require immediate restroom access and short unscheduled breaks. These needs may fluctuate based on symptom severity.”
You can also ask your provider to fax or email the letter directly to your HR department, reducing the burden on you to manage sensitive information.
Common Workplace Accommodations for IBD
You don’t have to “push through.” There are accommodations that can support your health and your job performance, such as:
- Flexible start times or adjusted work hours
- The option to work remotely when needed
- Extra restroom breaks
- Private access to restrooms
- Modified travel expectations
- Time off for medical appointments, procedures, or infusions
What to Do If You Face Pushback
Sometimes even the most well-meaning employers need education. If you’re met with resistance or confusion:
- Reiterate your legal protections under the ADA
- Put your request in writing (email is fine)
- Involve your HR department or union representative
- Seek help from disability rights organizations or an employment attorney if necessary
If you’re feeling discouraged, remember: you are not asking for special treatment—you are asking for the support you are legally entitled to receive.
Confidence, Self-Compassion, and Your Voice
It can feel scary to speak up, especially if you’ve been conditioned to “just deal with it.” But advocating for your health is not a weakness—it’s a powerful act of self-respect.
Here’s a reflection exercise to try:
1. Write down three strengths you bring to your job.
2. Now write one way IBD has made you stronger.
3. Re-read when you need a reminder of how resilient you are.
Self-advocacy gets easier with practice. If you’re struggling with anxiety or confidence in the workplace, consider talking to a gut-brain therapist. Mental health support can make a real difference in how you show up for yourself.
You Deserve Support at Work
You don’t have to keep suffering in silence. Knowing your rights, having a plan, and using your voice can help you reclaim control—even when your body feels unpredictable.
Looking for more help navigating IBD and life transitions?
- Check out our post on IBD & Stress
- Explore GI Psychology for mind-body therapies for GI conditions
- Visit Job Accommodation Network for free guidance on workplace accommodations
- Find Local IBD support groups/virtual communities
References
Disability discrimination and employment decisions. US EEOC. (n.d.). https://www.eeoc.gov/disability-discrimination-and-employment-decisions
U.S. Department of Labor. (n.d.). Family and medical leave act. DOL.gov. https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fmla