Jeffrey Roberts, the President and Founder of the Irritable Bowel Syndrome Association, has just launched a free online social network for IBS sufferers called “My Irritable Bowel Syndrome”. Jeffrey was nice enough to take the time to explain to this not-so-web-savvy psychologist what an online social network is. Apparently, a network differs from a discussion forum in that members can express themselves in a free-form manner – thus they can post photos, music and videos to express themselves and hopefully, establish friendships with other network members.

I applaud any effort that reduces the isolation that IBS sufferers too often experience. My patients are always asking me, “Is this normal?” My reply is usually, “Normal for IBS.” Through the use of online groups, such as my forum or My Irritable Bowel Syndrome, IBSers can find out that their struggles are not so unique. What a great way to spread IBS Awareness!