Addressing Psychological Factors Essential to Treat Gastrointestinal Disorders

1. Addressing Psychological Factors Essential to Treat Gastrointestinal Disorders Addressing Psychological Factors Essential to Treat Gastrointestinal Disorders Being gastrointestinal disorders, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are often considered the same. IBD and IBS have many similarities in terms of symptoms, such as abdominal pain, constipation, urgent bowel movements, etc., as well as share disease burden since in most of the cases these conditions incite stress. Most of the patients suffering from IBD and IBS often report a high level of stress due to the painful life-disruptive symptoms. Both medical conditions cause psychological distress that can cause a range of mental disorders. Before understanding the repercussions of both the conditions on mental health, it is essential to comprehend the differences between them to ensure right treatment. On the one hand IBDs, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, involve inflammation of some or all parts of the digestive tract generally cause severe diarrhea, pain, fatigue and weight loss, on the other hand IBS affects the large intestine and is usually accompanied by cramps, bloating, gas, diarrhea constipation. Moreover, IBS does not cause inflammation and is commonly acknowledged as a functional disorder. chronic and and Apart from medication and a stringent diet, one can significantly improve these through adequate psychological interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), hypnosis, and mindfulness-based therapies. There is ample evidence highlighting the pivotal role of the aforementioned interventions in reducing disease burden, decreasing gastrointestinal disorders, improving medical adherence, assisting in living with a chronic illness, and improving the quality of life for individuals challenged by IBD and IBS. Impact of psychological interventions on gastrointestinal tracts The biochemical signaling between the brain and the gastrointestinal tract known as the brain-gut axis plays a key role in inciting stress. With the increased focus on the close relationship between mental health issues and gastrointestinal disorders, medical practitioners are increasingly integrating psychology in the treatment of these disorders to develop effective interventions. www.sovhealth.com

2. Although stress does not contribute to the development of IBD and IBS, many patients with these disorders have reported their worsening condition due to stress. Apart from the other forms of interventions of IBD, stress management therapies have also yielded favorable results. In addition, both the disorders are known to cause depression, anxiety, stress, etc., which can affect an individual’s immune system by slowing down the healing process. A 2016 cohort study identified the link between depression and anxiety with chronic medical conditions. The study concluded the onset of depression and anxiety are closely linked to the recurrence of medical conditions, in this case, IBD. There are various psychological interventions that can effectively reduce distress rising due to gastrointestinal disorders. These interventions not only boost an individual’s ability to cope with the medical condition, but also empower him or her to live with the disease. Some of these interventions are: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or talk therapy: Its emphasis is on changing negative thought processes and replacing them with a positive solution-seeking attitude. Gut-directed hypnotherapy: This intervention aims to increase a person’s focus and attention accompanied by deep relaxation with the aid of images and verbal suggestions that can have a positive effect on the digestive symptoms. Similarly, techniques like guided imagery, mindfulness and meditation that change a person’s thought process can help a person with IBD and IBS to cope with his or her symptoms. Another technique called biofeedback that assists in tracking a person’s response to stress can reduce IBD-induced stress symptoms, such as cold hands, tense muscles and rapid heart rate. Mental health more important than wealth Psychological interventions have helped many individuals with IBD and IBS to improve the quality of life by boosting their resilience against stress and alleviating symptoms. When living with a chronic condition, there is an increased risk of straining one’s mental well-being due to his or her inability to do things that he or she could perform quite easily otherwise. Early intervention plays a crucial role in alleviating the symptoms of both mental disorders and gastrointestinal disorders. Sovereign Health widely uses behavioral therapies to treat mental disorders, such as depression and anxiety, through a network of some fine mental health treatment centers spreadacross the United States. Our interventions are evidence-based and comprehensive treatment programs include medication, therapy, or both. For more information on mental disorders, call us at our 24/7 helpline number 866-698-4295. www.sovhealth.com