Men’s Health Awareness Month is personal for me. For many of us, it’s about the real, everyday battles we face with our health—challenges that often stay hidden because we feel we should “tough it out” in silence. One of these battles, for me and countless other men, is living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and adapting to life with a stoma.

This month, I want to share my story, not just to open up about the challenges I’ve faced, but to help break down some of the stigma around these health issues. My hope is that more men can find the support and strength they need to live openly and confidently, without feeling alone or misunderstood.

Living with IBD: my journey so far

IBD is a condition that impacts thousands of men, yet it’s not talked about enough. For those who aren’t familiar, IBD includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis – conditions that lead to chronic inflammation in the digestive tract. The symptoms are far from glamorous: severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and more. IBD is a relentless disease, often striking without warning and affecting every part of daily life, from work to relationships.

For years, I struggled with the idea of talking openly about my experience with IBD. Like many men, I was hesitant to discuss a health issue that felt deeply personal, uncomfortable, and, frankly, embarrassing. Our culture tends to push men toward silence, especially when it comes to “invisible” health issues. I felt like I should handle it on my own, to not be a burden or show weakness. But I’ve learned that keeping these experiences bottled up only makes the journey harder and it’s something that too many men go through alone.

Adapting to life with a stoma

For me, and for some people with severe cases of IBD, there comes a point where a stoma becomes necessary. It can be a life-saving procedure, but it’s also one that fundamentally changes how you see yourself and live each day.

Adjusting to life with a stoma hasn’t been easy, but it has been empowering in ways I never expected. There are physical challenges and times of frustration, but there’s also a sense of reclaiming my life from a disease that has controlled me for so long. Yes, it’s an adjustment, and it comes with its own mental and emotional struggles, especially when it comes to body image and confidence. But what I’ve found is that openness and support have been key to accepting my new normal and moving forward.

Why awareness matters

Men’s Health Awareness Month gives me a chance to share my story in the hope that it might reach others who are struggling, feeling isolated, or unsure of where to turn. IBD and living with a stoma aren’t commonly discussed, but that doesn’t mean they should be hidden. Raising awareness matters because it helps men like us:

• Recognise the signs and get help early: I ignored my symptoms for too long, and that’s something I hope to change for others. Early diagnosis can be life-changing, and taking symptoms seriously could help avoid or delay severe interventions.
• Feel supported in our experiences: speaking up about IBD or living with a stoma shouldn’t be taboo. Sharing our stories can be incredible, allowing us to connect with others who truly understand.
• Find a community: finding others who’ve walked this path has been essential for me. The support I’ve received from the IBD and ostomy communities has been invaluable, and it reminds me that I’m not alone in this journey.

Building a healthier future, together

Men’s Health Awareness Month is a reminder that we’re all in this together. If you’re struggling with IBD or adjusting to life with a stoma, I want you to know that support is out there and reaching out can make all the difference. Living with these health challenges doesn’t have to mean hiding them. By speaking up, seeking help, and connecting with each other, we can create a world where men feel empowered to face their health battles head-on, with dignity and support.

For any man out there fighting a similar battle: you’re not alone. Let’s stand together, break the silence, and move toward a healthier future, where we can live openly, confidently, and fully.

Thank you

Kevin
@thestomaguy