My anxiety got so bad that it developed into Irritable Bowel Syndrome- has this happened to anyone else?

[Bluereader]

In 2017, the stress of my final year of secondary school twisted my anxiety into Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). My anxiety was originally stomach pains on varying levels, but IBS feels so much worse. Today, I still struggle with anxiety in combination with IBS and seeking various treatments such as the low FODMAP Diet. Has this happened to anyone else? How do you cope with having anxiety and something so uncontrollable as IBS?

[therising]

Hi Bluereader

I feel for you so much as you face the challenges that come with that mind and body combo. When the mind and body are balanced and co-operating beautifully, life is far less complicated for sure.

Wondering if you've ever looked into the topic of 'Mood and Food'. Absolutely fascinating groundbreaking research is being carried out in this area. Personally, I had no idea of this incredible connection until I listened to an educator from Deakin Uni talk about it (she came to my kids' school last year). This topic is definitely worth Googling. Hoping it offers you a lot of revelations and a positive direction regarding the way forward. Our gut microbiome is an absolute powerhouse when it come to how we tick or how we're not ticking so easily.

All the best on your quest for greater well being 🙂

[Not_Batman]

Hi Bluereader.

Anxiety, depression, and stress can manifest itself as many physical things on the body, which differs from person to person. The level of anxiety and stress that i was dealing with early on certainly manifested itself as stomach pains, and other intestinal P.I.T.A - Pains An The A***. so there is no shame at all in how your body reacts.

I cant comment on strategies for coping with the physical changes, but certain slight changes to ones diet had an impact on the overall wellbeing. I hope you are able to find that balance.

Not_Batman

[CHNN]

Hi Bluereader,

My Father developed the same condition from An/Dp and work related stress. He went to the doctor for physical treatment but eventually the only thing that worked was addressing the cause of the stress. I bet your first response to that last sentence was something like "Yeah, no shit", but think about your life and find if there is any other part of your life that gives you stress or anxiety.

I hope you find relief from your struggle.