Support Groups

We currently offer support groups for individuals with IBD. Click here to see dates and locations.

Our support groups are regular gatherings for individuals who have an intestinal disease or disorder. The purpose of these meetings is to provide and exchange information related to the group focus, to offer one another support, and to share experiences and proven coping strategies. Participants are encouraged to speak freely about problems, concerns, and frustrations, and to contribute their helpful hints, information, encouragement, and support. We never expect anyone to volunteer any information he or she wishes to keep private.

Meetings are open to the public and there is no charge to attend. Occasionally, we invite various medical experts and other qualified professionals to give speeches, miniseminars, or presentations, with time allowed for question periods. We dedicate a significant portion of each meeting to informal, open sharing and discussion.

Friends and family are welcome to attend, as are medical professionals and anyone who would like more information on these topics.

Our inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) groups are for those people with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, ulcerative proctitis, and for those who have unspecific inflammatory conditions. The components of these chronic diseases are such that information, medication, and coping strategies are similar and therefore one group can cover these concerns.

The GI Society offers a number of support groups across Canada. These groups meet at various locations and new ones form from time to time. Click to see dates and locations.

Why go to a support group meeting?

Dealing with a chronic medical problem is not easy, particularly if you don’t have a strong support system, or if your doctor is the only one you feel comfortable talking with about your health condition. Some patients find it worthwhile to meet with others who share the same disease or disorder and who understand what they are going through.

Learning ways others are managing might ease your adjustment to life with a new diagnosis or even relieve some of the challenges posed by long-term intestinal problems. Discussions with fellow group members may foster in you a greater understanding and acceptance of your circumstances, which can reduce the anxiety associated with a chronic medical ailment.

Discussions are usually lively and, while staying on the topic of the disease at hand, issues can vary broadly, since a digestive condition can affect many aspects of a person’s life. Jobs, personal relationships, spare-time pursuits such as vacations, holiday celebrations, and other social events can take on an entirely different perspective when you’re living with a chronic condition.

Support groups offer an important forum to discover how others have managed their digestive ailments, whether using traditional treatments or other not-too-traditional therapies. Discussions about various diets and lifestyle changes are always popular.

While sharing experiences and empathizing with each other, participants don’t dwell on the negatives, instead choosing to focus on ways they have found to manage and overcome everyday challenges. The groups follow a set of guidelines, which include listening in a respectful manner, refraining from judgment, and preserving confidentiality.

The GI Society support group meetings offer a wealth of information to aid understanding for those newly diagnosed with a gastrointestinal disorder and for those who have lived with a condition for years. Coming to a support group provides an opportunity to share expertise and ease the disease experience of a more recently diagnosed patient. Plus, there’s always a chance to learn something new!

Guidelines Followed in our Support Groups

We strive to maintain a positive, friendly attitude within the groups that meet, remaining optimistic in the face of adversity. All participants in the support group should be able to make these statements:

• I am in a group of people with a common bond, sharing my thoughts, concerns, feelings, experiences, strengths, and wisdom.
• I respect that all shared personal information remains confidential.
• Discussions foster positive attitudes, looking toward solutions.
• I share my problems, but I do not dwell on them.
• I listen, explore options, and express my feelings.
• I do not prescribe, diagnose, judge, or give medical advice.
• I have the right not to use the recommendations of others.
• Our facilitator is not an “expert” and most sharing of ideas will come from the group.
• I share equally with the other members of the group the responsibility for making the group run smoothly.
• We each have the opportunity for equal talking time or the choice to remain silent; we can share as much or as little as we want.
• I listen actively when someone is talking and avoid interrupting and engaging in side conversations.
• I will stick to my own experiences and will avoid generalities.
• The support group meetings supplement and do not replace medical care.

Here’s what some of our support group participants have to say:

“I never had so much enjoyment discussing my illness before! Lots of humour and support from people who really know and understand.”

“I learn something new at each meeting. It’s great to be able to talk to people who understand what you are going through.”

“What a knowledgeable group of people! I’ve learned so much from two meetings…even fifteen years after being diagnosed.”

In addition to holding support groups, The GI Society publishes patient information on a variety of digestive diseases and disorders and regularly hosts free, public lectures. Contact our office or continue to explore our website for further information and look for the GI Society's page on Facebook.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Group (Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis)

Vancouver, BC

The GI Society is always looking for volunteer facilitators to lead new support groups. A facilitator's duties include confirming room bookings, welcoming members, encouraging participants to share information, keeping the group on topic, and providing a safe, supportive, and open environment for participants. If you are interested or would like more information about becoming a support group facilitator, please contact our office.