Scared to live in dorm with Crohn's need some advice

[Matthew G]

I moving into my dorm in a week and I'm nervous because I'm going to have roommate and I don't know them and I don't know exactly what to tell them about my Crohn's and also I'm scared about living in a dorm because the bathrooms are in the hall and everyone on the floor shares. I have tried applying for special living options but there weren't any rooms late (my application was in late). So please any advice or tips :sign0085:

 

[sickofcrohns]

How is your dorm run? Do you have dons? You should be able to talk to your floor's don and let him/her know that you have a medical condition and should be given priority bathroom access. Of course you'll also have to tell your roommate. He may be clueless but is at least likely to be a decent person. Since you'll have informed your don in advance, if there are problems, you will at least have some grounds to switch if necessary (let's hope it's not necessary).

Also, get in touch with the accessibility/disability office at your university and they should be able to help guide you through whatever issues may come up with classes (rescheduling exams, for example) or other issues on campus.

Good luck!

 

[mbishop]

I've always dreaded sharing rooms with people because of my Crohn's - short term is even worse because your options for explaining are not always there. I actually appreciate the shared bathroom area - its worse having 1 bathroom per room when you share because, when your roommate is showering, you are SOL if the urgency hits. You may have an "accessible" bathroom on the floor that would give you extra privacy when needed also (they generally get less frequent use).

As for telling your roommate, I'd recommend you do so. It will make other things less awkward, such as taking your meds or running out of the room mid-conversation. You can always wait a bit before telling them, and judge if you can trust them not to tell others (unless you want them to).

Best of luck in school!

 

[sickofcrohns]

Oh yes, if you suspect your roomie is likely to "sample" or try to sell your meds, you need to emphasize all the unpleasant side effects! Go ahead and even make some up if you need to!