Living with Crohn’s Disease can feel like an uphill battle some days, but there’s an incredible opportunity to contribute to research that could make a real difference for all of us. Lucy Stafford, a researcher at the University of York, is conducting a study to explore how gut sensations—like hunger and fullness—impact mental health. If you’ve ever wondered how your lived experience could help improve care for others, this is your chance.
Why This Research Matters
Crohn’s doesn’t just affect your digestive system—it impacts your mental health, too. For many of us, feelings like anxiety or frustration are closely tied to physical sensations from our gut. This study is all about understanding those connections.
Lucy’s goal is to validate a new questionnaire that examines how people interpret and respond to sensations like hunger or fullness. By doing this, she hopes to provide better tools for understanding the psychological challenges people with gastrointestinal disorders face. It’s research grounded in empathy, and I think it’s something worth supporting.
Who Can Take Part?
Not sure if you’re eligible? Here’s the quick checklist:
- You need to be 18 or older.
- You should have a gastrointestinal disorder like Crohn’s (diagnosed or suspected—no proof required).
- Be fluent in English.
- You need to live in the UK.
If this sounds like you, it’s a simple and meaningful way to make an impact.
What’s Involved?
The study couldn’t be easier to join. You’ll complete:
- An Online Survey – It asks about your gut sensations, symptoms, and how they make you feel.
- A Follow-Up Survey – A week later, you’ll be asked to complete the same questions again.
The whole process takes about 20 minutes, and it’s completely anonymous. If you’re concerned about sharing personal information, rest assured: your email address (if provided) won’t be linked to your responses, and the data is handled with strict confidentiality.
What’s In It for You?
Beyond knowing you’re contributing to something that could genuinely help others, there are a few perks:
- Reflect on Your Experience – The questions might help you think differently about how gut sensations affect your mental health.
- Enter a Prize Draw – Complete the second survey, and you’ll be entered to win one of four £50 Amazon vouchers.
Plus, Lucy is committed to sharing her findings with participants, so you’ll get to see how your input contributes to this important work.
How to Join
Ready to help? Here’s how:
- Click the survey link: Take part now.
- It only takes a few minutes, and you could help shape the future of Crohn’s research.
Lucy’s recruitment poster is also available if you want to share it with others who might be interested.
Why I’m Sharing This
As someone living with Crohn’s, I know how isolating it can sometimes feel. But opportunities like this remind me that our experiences matter—and they can make a difference. Research like Lucy’s is a step toward better understanding, care, and awareness for those of us navigating life with Crohn’s Disease.
I’ve already shared this with a few friends, and I’d encourage you to do the same. Whether you take part yourself or pass the link along to someone who might qualify, it’s a small action that could lead to big change.
FAQs
Yes. If you feel uncomfortable, you can stop at any time without giving a reason. The questions are designed to be sensitive but insightful, and there are support resources if needed.
That’s fine! You don’t need a formal diagnosis to participate. If you’re experiencing symptoms or awaiting confirmation, you’re welcome to join.
Your responses are anonymous and used solely for research purposes. Lucy’s team will share their findings, but no personal data will ever be linked to you.
Final Thoughts
Helping others is one of the best ways to take control of a condition like Crohn’s. By supporting Lucy’s research, we’re not just raising awareness—we’re paving the way for better tools, understanding, and care for the future.
Take part today, and let’s move forward together.
