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Dealing with Anxiety After a Diagnosis of Coeliac Disease

Dealing with Anxiety After a Diagnosis of Coeliac Disease

It's not just you

The impact of a diagnosis of coeliac disease should not be underestimated. Whilst many people make a speedy recovery from the symptoms of coeliac disease following diagnosis and treatment, their ‘medicine,’ a gluten free diet, can be overwhelming. If you have little experience of the condition (no friends or family members following a gluten free diet), you may experience the initial relief of your diagnosis, but this is often followed by a period of uncertainty, adjustment and for some, anxiety.

Firstly you are trying to understand a new, lifelong illness and the implications of your diagnosis. Then you are thrust into the world of gluten free foods, which includes a specialist Free From aisle of products in the supermarkets, vigorous label reading and separation of your foods from other members of your family to prevent contamination. No wonder so many people find this time so stressful!

One of the most important things to remember is that these feelings are normal, and anxiety is experienced by many people when they are first diagnosed with coeliac disease.

coeliac disease diagnosis

What Can You Do?

Reach out to the community

There is a wide and friendly gluten free community out there. From social media groups such as Coeliacs in the UK, to Coeliac UK’s online and local support groups, there is lots of help available. Speaking to other people in the same position is key to helping to come to terms with your lifestyle change.

Don’t let gluten scare you!

Avoiding gluten is important now that you are diagnosed with coeliac disease. However, don’t let the fear of gluten stop you from doing the things you enjoy. You should continue to go out to eat, to travel abroad, to meet up with your family and friends. One of the most difficult things many people experience is the feeling of isolation, but with a little planning, all of these things are still possible.

Educate yourself

If you have concerns about adhering to your gluten free diet, educating yourself could help you to alleviate some of the worries you may have. There is lots of information here on the Glutafin website, but also visit Coeliac UK, NHS, the Celiac Disease Foundation and the Mayo Clinic. And if you are still concerned, reach out to your GP who might be able to refer you to a specialist dietitian for further advice. Don’t be afraid to be proactive about your condition.

 

eating out when diagnosed with coeliac disease
© 2025. Glutafin. Dr. Schär UK Ltd. 401 Faraday Street, Birchwood Park, Warrington, WA3 6GA
© 2025. Glutafin. Dr. Schär UK Ltd. 401 Faraday Street, Birchwood Park, Warrington, WA3 6GA