Impact of Psychosocial Factors on the Activity of Crohn’s Disease: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Social Support, Stress, and Flare-Up Incidence

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Crohn's disease is a chronic and debilitating intestinal disorder that alternates between remission and active flare-ups, often leading to hospitalization. Social support is known to enhance adaptation to the disease and modulate stress perception in patients, while stress may exacerbate symptoms. The aim of this study was to examine the roles of perceived stress and social support in Crohn's disease and their impact on the frequency of flare-ups. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted, assessing stress and social support in a cohort of 91 patients with Crohn's disease during flare-up and remission phases. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-14) and a Social Support Questionnaire were utilized for evaluation. We examined the relationship between stress and social support in Crohn's disease. The interaction between the variables studied was also observed, considering the stage of the disease. Finally, we carried out an analysis of the influence of these two variables on the development of flare-ups in Crohn's disease. Results: The study revealed that patients experience higher stress levels during flare-ups and that these levels are amplified by a lack of social support. A significant relationship was identified between the levels of social support and the occurrence of flare-ups, indicating that better social support is associated with fewer flare-ups. Conclusions: Patients with Crohn's disease in the flare-up phase are subject to considerable stress. A deficit in social support is linked to an increase in stress levels. The interaction between social support and stress plays a critical role in the development of flare-ups.