Where are you doing your distance education courses from? I am also taking courses, towards a BSc. I have had ups and downs in social life, from both IBS and from having to do school work at home! However, I don't mind, I still make an effort to hang out with friends, going out for tea (peppermint...) do you have a Tim Hortons where you are? I understand about the restaurants, not many places here that are "safe"...
I agree with having an IBS "safe" supper and inviting friends over...Have you made the antidepressant brownies yet? Mmmmm...
Is there a gym you can go to, where you can play things like Squash/badminton, or just simply work out?