Why hiding bladder or bowel problems can feel so isolating

Guest blog by: The Bladder & Bowel Community supports millions of people across the UK and internationally by providing information, guidance, and practical advice on bladder and bowel conditions and related healthcare. Our mission is to raise awareness, offer meaningful support, and empower individuals to take control of their health and advocate for their own care needs. As the creators of the original Just Can’t Wait toilet card, our work plays a vital role in improving access to facilities and helping to reduce the stigma and isolation experienced by people. Find out more: bladderandbowel.org

There are few things as isolating as feeling like you’re the only one living with a particular health condition. Your friends and family may not fully understand how difficult life can feel. You might even feel like you’re not being heard when you seek support.

There are an estimated 14 million people in the UK living with a bladder condition and 6.5 million with a bowel control problem that has a negative impact on daily life, yet many people still feel alone in their experience.

When you’re living with a bladder or bowel condition, it can be easy to withdraw. You might avoid asking for help if you feel "dirty" or "ashamed". Over time, this can deepen feelings of isolation, making it harder for others to understand what you’re going through or how to support you.

Life is hard enough without a bladder or bowel condition, right?

That’s why support and understanding matter.

The Bladder & Bowel Community was set up in 1989 to support people living with these conditions and to help reduce the stigma that often surrounds them. Through information, guidance, and community support, the aim is to help people feel more informed, confident, and less alone.

Why this matters for Loneliness Awareness Week

For Loneliness Awareness Week 2026, we want to highlight how experiences like this can contribute to loneliness, especially when people feel unable to talk about what they’re going through.

We often hear the words, “I thought I was the only one.” Bladder and bowel health can feel deeply personal, and that can make it harder to open up, even to those closest to you. You may know something isn’t right, but finding the words, or the right moment, can feel overwhelming.

This is where connection becomes so important.

Creating spaces where people feel safe to talk, ask questions, and be heard can make a real difference. Whether that’s speaking to someone you trust, or finding others who understand your experience, these moments of connection can help reduce feelings of loneliness.

Sharing the load

Refraining from speaking about any health issue can have a real impact on mental wellbeing. Living with a bladder or bowel condition can lead to stress or anxiety, and stress can worsen symptoms, creating a difficult cycle.

What we hear time and time again is that speaking to someone helps.

It may take time to find the right person or space, but opening up, even in small ways, can be the first step towards feeling less alone.

One community member, Mhairie, shared her experience:

“I’ve got a long way to go until I feel confident again. IBS sadly rules my life but I have found that by speaking openly about my bowel issues, it’s been a surprise to learn how many others have issues too.”

Her story reflects something many people discover, that loneliness can ease when we realise others understand what we’re going through.

A community voice

Having a space to ask, “Has anyone else experienced this?” can be incredibly powerful.

Community members often share how connecting with others has helped them feel seen, understood, and less alone:

“Felt like I was going mad, great to read other people suffer the same issues as me.”

“I feel more confident that people will be more accommodating to my condition.”

“I have found support and ideas. Thank you.”

This is the power of shared experience, and why creating opportunities for connection is so important.

Breaking the stigma together

By opening up conversations around bladder and bowel health, we can begin to challenge stigma and make it easier for people to seek support.

This is why we’re proud to support Loneliness Awareness Week, to help give loneliness a voice, and to remind people that they are not alone in how they feel.

Because at the heart of it, we all need understanding, compassion, and connection.

If you or someone you know is affected

If you are living with a bladder or bowel condition, or supporting someone who is, small acts of understanding can make a big difference:

• Let them know they are not alone

• Help them feel seen and heard

• Support their needs with dignity and respect

  
  

We believe in listening to the needs of people affected by bladder and bowel conditions and providing advice and support however possible. This might mean referring you to our Support Group to connect with others who may have lived experience, or helping you find your nearest continence clinic for face to face advice.

• Just Can’t Wait Toilet Card

• Information and Support

• Bladder & Bowel Community Support Group

  
  

Visit bladderandbowel.org for more information.