I find knowing you are not alone does help. I have had IBS since I was 14, though it was not diagnosed till I was in my 30s. I am now 60. It does affect your life and because of that I have sought help from various sources. In the early days, I felt isolated, as you didn't talk about these things. Now you can and it is amazing how many people have some kind of digestive illness.
I do have low days, but try to work round the needs of my digestive system. I don't work anymore and lost out on career opportunities when I did. I think about what I can do rather than what I can't do. For example, 9 years ago I travelled round the world, some of the time camping. I wasn't keen. What if my IBS became really bad? But my husband really needed this trip, so I agreed. We went to English speaking countries, where I could source food I could eat and where I could get medical help if the need arose. Did I have challenges? Absolutely! Did I have need medical help? Yes. I just got on with it and stayed in hotels when things were bad. I met kind people along the way, all with their own challenges. My husband and I looked after each other.
So do those things you want to do, just adjust to accommodate the inconveniences of any condition you may have. Do what you can whether at home or out in the community. It helps take the focus off yourself and how you are feeling. Some days you can't, but that's ok. Have a pyjama/duvet day. Seek help when you need it and be honest with friends and family.
PS I recommend having a nice bathroom and a good book for those days when you see a lot of each other!
PSS My lovely grandson aged 21 months got me through last year when I was ill. Best medicine ever!
