Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBIs) are health problems where the brain and gut don’t work together the right way. Even though the stomach and intestines may look normal, people with DGBIs can have pain, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. These problems happen because signals between the brain and the gut get mixed up. Stress, diet, and how sensitive the gut is can make symptoms worse. Some common DGBIs are irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia. These conditions are real, and doctors can help people feel better with the right treatment and support.

References

1. Drossman, D. A., & Hasler, W. L. (2016). Rome IV—Functional GI disorders: Disorders of gut-brain interaction. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1257–1261. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.033

2. Drossman, D. A. (2016). Functional gastrointestinal disorders: History, pathophysiology, clinical features and Rome IV. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1262–1279. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.032

3. Palsson, O. S., Whitehead, W. E., van Tilburg, M. A. L., Chang, L., Chey, W., Crowell, M. D., ... & Drossman, D. A. (2016). Rome IV Diagnostic Questionnaires and Tables for Investigators and Clinicians. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1481–1491. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.010

4. Mayer, E. A. (2011). Gut feelings: The emerging biology of gut–brain communication. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 12(8), 453–466. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3071

Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBIs) happen when the brain and gut stop working together the right way. This can be caused by stress, changes in gut bacteria, past infections, or problems with how the gut moves. Some people with DGBIs have a very sensitive gut, so even normal gas or food can cause pain or bloating. Others may have slower digestion or trouble going to the bathroom. Things like anxiety or a hard life event can also make symptoms worse. Even though the gut looks normal, these changes in how it works can lead to real and uncomfortable symptoms.

References

1. Drossman, D. A., & Hasler, W. L. (2016). Rome IV—Functional GI disorders: Disorders of gut-brain interaction. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1257–1261. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.033

2. Mayer, E. A. (2011). Gut feelings: The emerging biology of gut–brain communication. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 12(8), 453–466. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3071

3. Ford, A. C., Sperber, A. D., Corsetti, M., & Camilleri, M. (2020). Irritable bowel syndrome. The Lancet, 396(10263), 1675–1688. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(20)31572-0

4. Simrén, M., & Tack, J. (2018). New treatments and therapeutic targets for IBS and other functional bowel disorders. Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 15(10), 589–605. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41575-018-0034-5

You might still have stomach problems even if all your tests look normal. That’s because many things can cause symptoms that don’t show up on scans or lab work. Your brain and gut are closely connected, and stress or past trauma can make your gut more sensitive. Sometimes, the way your gut moves is off — too fast or too slow — and that doesn’t show on regular tests. Tiny changes in gut chemicals, hormones, or even mild inflammation can also cause pain or bowel changes. These kinds of issues are called Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBIs), and they are real and treatable.

References

1. Drossman, D. A., & Hasler, W. L. (2016). Rome IV—Functional GI disorders: Disorders of gut-brain interaction. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1257–1261. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.033

2. Mayer, E. A. (2011). Gut feelings: The emerging biology of gut–brain communication. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 12(8), 453–466. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3071

3. Ford, A. C., Sperber, A. D., Corsetti, M., & Camilleri, M. (2020). Irritable bowel syndrome. The Lancet, 396(10263), 1675–1688. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(20)31572-0

4. Simrén, M., Barbara, G., Flint, H. J., Spiegel, B. M., Spiller, R. C., Vanner, S., ... & Quigley, E. M. (2013). Intestinal microbiota in functional bowel disorders: A Rome foundation report. Gut, 62(1), 159–176. https://doi.org/10.1136/gutjnl-2012-302167

Sometimes people feel belly pain even when doctors can’t find anything wrong on tests. This doesn’t mean the pain isn’t real. It may happen because the nerves in the belly are extra sensitive or the brain and gut are not working well together. Things like stress, anxiety, or even past stomach infections can make this worse. This kind of pain is often caused by something called a Disorder of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBI), like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or functional abdominal pain. The good news is that there are ways to help manage it, like medicine, changes in diet, and stress-relief techniques.

References

1. Drossman, D. A., & Hasler, W. L. (2016). Rome IV—Functional GI disorders: Disorders of gut-brain interaction. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1257–1261. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.033

2. van Tilburg, M. A. L., Chitkara, D. K., Palsson, O. S., Turner, M., Blois-Martin, N., & Whitehead, W. E. (2009). Audio-recorded guided imagery treatment reduces functional abdominal pain in children: A pilot study. Pediatrics, 124(5), e890–e897. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2008-2252

3. Mayer, E. A. (2011). Gut feelings: The emerging biology of gut–brain communication. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 12(8), 453–466. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3071

4. Chiou, E., Nurko, S., & Rosen, J. M. (2012). Functional abdominal pain and irritable bowel syndrome in children and adolescents. JAMA Pediatrics, 166(7), 677–683. https://doi.org/10.1001/archpediatrics.2011.1836

Gut pain, also called visceral pain, is not like pain you feel in your muscles or joints. It often feels like a deep ache or cramp inside your belly, and it can be hard to tell exactly where it’s coming from. Sometimes, this pain spreads to other parts of your body, like your chest or back, even if the problem is in your gut. That can make the pain feel confusing or scary, but it doesn’t always mean something dangerous is happening.

Stress and emotions can make gut pain feel stronger. That’s because your brain and your gut are connected and always talking to each other. If you're worried, nervous, or upset, your gut might feel worse. This kind of pain can also come and go, like waves or cramps, instead of staying in one place like a sore muscle. Learning about how this kind of pain works can help you better understand your symptoms and talk to your doctor about them.

📚 References

Aziz, Q., & Grundy, D. (1998). Gut pain and visceral hypersensitivity. BMJ, 316(7144), 1211–1214. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.316.7144.1211

Mayer, E. A., & Tillisch, K. (2011). The brain-gut axis in abdominal pain syndromes. Annual Review of Medicine, 62, 381–396. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-med-012309-103958

Have you ever had a “gut feeling” or felt sick to your stomach when you were nervous? That’s because your brain and gut are closely connected. When you feel strong emotions like stress, fear, or sadness, your gut can react too — causing pain, bloating, or bathroom problems. This is because the same nerves and chemicals that affect your mood also affect how your stomach and intestines work. Taking care of your mental health with things like deep breathing, talking to someone, or relaxing activities can help your gut feel better too.

References

1. Mayer, E. A. (2011). Gut feelings: The emerging biology of gut–brain communication. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 12(8), 453–466. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3071

2. Drossman, D. A., & Hasler, W. L. (2016). Rome IV—Functional GI disorders: Disorders of gut-brain interaction. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1257–1261. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.033

3. Chougule, A., Nayar, K., & Kamath, A. (2021). Mind–body interventions for irritable bowel syndrome: A systematic review. Cureus, 13(5), e14947. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.14947

4. Konturek, P. C., Brzozowski, T., & Konturek, S. J. (2011). Stress and the gut: Pathophysiology, clinical consequences, diagnostic approach and treatment options. Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, 62(6), 591–599. https://jpp.krakow.pl/journal/archive/12_11/articles/04_article.html

Some people with stomach or gut problems feel pain or discomfort from things that usually wouldn’t bother others—this is called visceral sensitivity. It means your gut nerves are extra sensitive and send more signals to your brain. Things like eating a small meal, having gas, or even just stretching your belly can feel uncomfortable. Strong smells, certain foods, or stress can also make these symptoms worse.

Even though there’s no damage in your gut, your body reacts as if something is wrong. That’s because the nerves in your digestive system are more alert and respond strongly. This can lead to symptoms like pain, nausea, or bloating, even when medical tests come back normal. Understanding visceral sensitivity helps you realize these symptoms are real—and they can be managed with the right support and care.

📚 References

• Mayer, E. A., & Tillisch, K. (2011). The brain-gut axis in abdominal pain syndromes. Annual Review of Medicine, 62, 381–396. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-med-012309-103958

• Van Oudenhove, L., & Aziz, Q. (2013). The role of psychosocial factors and psychiatric disorders in functional dyspepsia. Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 10(3), 158–167. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrgastro.2013.10
  
  

When you're stressed or scared, your body gets ready to protect you—kind of like getting ready to run away or fight. To do this, your brain tells your body to send more blood to your muscles and less to your stomach. This means your digestion slows down, and your stomach may feel tight, full, or uncomfortable. You might not feel hungry anymore, or you may feel like throwing up, even if you haven't eaten anything.

This happens because your brain and your gut are closely connected. Chemicals like adrenaline are released when you're stressed, and they can make your heart race, your hands shake, and your stomach hurt. This is why emotions like worry or fear can make your belly feel sick. It's a normal response, but when stress happens often, it can lead to long-term stomach problems.

📚 References (APA Style)

• Mayer, E. A. (2011). Gut feelings: the emerging biology of gut–brain communication. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 12(8), 453–466. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3071

• Chrousos, G. P. (2009). Stress and disorders of the stress system. Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 5(7), 374–381. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrendo.2009.106

🌐 Trusted Websites for More Information

• International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD)

• NIDDK – Stress and Digestive Problems

• Rome Foundation – Patient Education

• American Psychological Association – Stress Effects on the Body

When you're really stressed, your body goes into “fight or flight” mode—like it’s getting ready to face danger. To help you react quickly, your body sends out stress chemicals that speed things up, including how fast food moves through your gut. This can make you feel like you need to poop suddenly or more often than usual. It’s your body’s natural way of trying to protect you, even though there’s no real danger.

At the same time, your belly muscles may tighten, which can lead to cramps or diarrhea. Some people may feel pain or pressure in their stomach or need to run to the bathroom right away. This doesn’t mean something is wrong with your gut—it’s just how the brain and body respond to stress. It’s normal, but it can be uncomfortable if it happens a lot.

📚 References

• Mayer, E. A., Labus, J. S., Tillisch, K., Cole, S. W., & Baldi, P. (2015). Towards a systems view of gut–brain communication. Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 12(1), 49–62. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrgastro.2014.210

• Drossman, D. A. (2016). Functional gastrointestinal disorders: history, pathophysiology, clinical features and Rome IV. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1262–1279.e2. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.032

Past trauma, like abuse, neglect, or scary events, can have a strong effect on your gut. When something bad happens, your brain remembers the stress and may stay on high alert. This can confuse the signals between your brain and your gut, causing problems like pain, bloating, or changes in bowel habits. Even if you don’t feel upset, your body can still react as if it’s in danger. This stress response may lead to a sensitive gut that overreacts to normal things, like food or gas. This is common in Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBIs), such as IBS and functional dyspepsia.

References

1. Drossman, D. A., & Hasler, W. L. (2016). Rome IV—Functional GI disorders: Disorders of gut-brain interaction. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1257–1261. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.033

2. Chitkara, D. K., van Tilburg, M. A., Blois-Martin, N., & Whitehead, W. E. (2008). Early life risk factors that contribute to irritable bowel syndrome in adults: A systematic review. The American Journal of Gastroenterology, 103(3), 765–774. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1572-0241.2007.01722.x

3. Koloski, N. A., Jones, M., & Talley, N. J. (2012). Evidence that independent gut-to-brain and brain-to-gut pathways operate in irritable bowel syndrome. Neurogastroenterology & Motility, 24(9), 793–799. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2982.2012.01953.x

4. Bradford, K., Shih, W., Videlock, E. J., Presson, A. P., Naliboff, B. D., Mayer, E. A., & Chang, L. (2012). Association between early adverse life events and irritable bowel syndrome. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 10(4), 385–390. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cgh.2011.12.018

Hypervigilance happens when your brain pays too much attention to what your body feels—especially after eating. For people with sensitive stomachs, even small and normal belly feelings (like fullness or gas) can seem scary or painful. Your body might be fine, but your brain treats those feelings like something is wrong. This can make it hard to relax around food, and some people may even start to fear eating.

The good news is that you can train your brain to feel safer. You don’t need to fear food. Using calming tools like breathing exercises or mindful moments—like pausing to notice how your body feels without judgment—can help your brain feel less on edge. Over time, this can reduce the intensity of the discomfort.

📚 References (APA Style)

• Van Oudenhove, L., & Aziz, Q. (2013). The role of psychosocial factors and psychiatric disorders in functional dyspepsia. Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 10(3), 158–167. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrgastro.2013.10

• Kennedy, P. J., Cryan, J. F., Dinan, T. G., & Clarke, G. (2014). Irritable bowel syndrome: A microbiome–gut–brain axis disorder? World Journal of Gastroenterology, 20(39), 14105–14125. https://doi.org/10.3748/wjg.v20.i39.14105
  
  

People with chronic stomach or gut problems sometimes become very aware of every little feeling in their body—this is called hypervigilance. It happens when the brain watches the body too closely and overreacts to normal feelings in the belly. This can lead to symptoms like bloating, nausea, gas, cramping, and even tightness in the chest or throat. Some people may start to avoid meals out of fear that eating will make them feel worse.

These symptoms are real, but they don’t always mean something is physically wrong with your organs. Instead, your nervous system is “on high alert” and sending stronger signals to your brain. Mindfulness, gentle movement, and working with a healthcare provider can help calm the body and retrain the brain’s response.

📚 References (APA Style)

• Van Oudenhove, L., & Aziz, Q. (2013). The role of psychosocial factors and psychiatric disorders in functional dyspepsia. Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 10(3), 158–167. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrgastro.2013.10

• Drossman, D. A. (2016). Functional gastrointestinal disorders: history, pathophysiology, clinical features and Rome IV. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1262–1279.e2. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.032

Sometimes people feel sick in more than one way—like having a headache, stomach pain, tiredness, or sore muscles—even though their medical tests look normal. This happens because the brain and body are closely connected. When you’ve had pain or stress for a while, your brain can become more sensitive and stay on “high alert.” That means it might keep sending signals of pain or discomfort, even when your body isn’t in danger.

Feelings like stress, worry, or sadness can make these symptoms worse. Your nervous system may stay stuck in “emergency mode,” even when everything is fine. This is why tests like bloodwork or scans can come back normal. The symptoms are real, but they come from how your brain and body are working together—not from something broken or damaged.

📚 References (APA Style)

• Drossman, D. A. (2016). Functional gastrointestinal disorders: history, pathophysiology, clinical features and Rome IV. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1262–1279.e2. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.032

• Clauw, D. J. (2015). Diagnosing and treating chronic musculoskeletal pain based on the underlying mechanism(s). Best Practice & Research Clinical Rheumatology, 29(1), 6–19. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.berh.2015.04.024
  
  

This picture shows how your brain and gut work together — especially when you're feeling anxious. When you're stressed or scared, your brain sends signals to your gut through a nerve called the vagus nerve. Parts of the brain like the amygdala, insula, and prefrontal cortex help control how we feel and respond to stress. These signals can make your gut more sensitive, slow down digestion, and cause problems like stomach pain, bloating, or changes in how often you go to the bathroom. This is why anxiety can make gut symptoms worse in conditions like IBS or other Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBIs).

References

1. Mayer, E. A. (2011). Gut feelings: The emerging biology of gut–brain communication. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 12(8), 453–466. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3071

2. Drossman, D. A., & Hasler, W. L. (2016). Rome IV—Functional GI disorders: Disorders of gut-brain interaction. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1257–1261. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.033

3. Naliboff, B. D., Berman, S., Chang, L., Derbyshire, S. W. G., Suyenobu, B., Vogt, B. A., ... & Mayer, E. A. (2003). Sex-related differences in IBS patients: Central processing of visceral stimuli. Gastroenterology, 124(7), 1738–1747. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0016-5085(03)00388-9

4. Chitkara, D. K., van Tilburg, M. A., Blois-Martin, N., & Whitehead, W. E. (2008). Early life risk factors that contribute to irritable bowel syndrome in adults: A systematic review. The American Journal of Gastroenterology, 103(3), 765–774. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1572-0241.2007.01722.x

When you have stomach problems, it’s normal to feel worried or upset—but calming your body and mind can actually help ease your symptoms. This infographic shows easy ways to stay calm. Breathing slowly and deeply can relax your nervous system. Gentle movement, like walking or stretching, can help reduce stress and support digestion. Doing relaxing activities like reading, journaling, or sitting in nature can give your mind a break.

Sticking to a daily routine, being kind to yourself, and talking to someone you trust can make a big difference too. Stress can make stomach issues worse, so taking small steps to care for your emotional well-being can help your body feel safer and more at ease. These strategies don’t replace medical care—but they can support it and help you feel more in control.

📚 References (APA Style)

• Lackner, J. M., Jaccard, J., Radziwon, C., Firth, R. S., Gudleski, G. D., & Katz, L. A. (2018). Durability and decay of treatment benefit of cognitive behavioral therapy for irritable bowel syndrome: 12-month follow-up. The American Journal of Gastroenterology, 113(8), 1241–1249. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41395-018-0174-9

• Kuo, B., & Spiegel, B. M. R. (2016). The emerging role of behavioral therapies in gastrointestinal disorders. Current Gastroenterology Reports, 18(6), 32. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11894-016-0500-7
  
  

Some people feel sick after taking medicine, even though they’re not having a real allergic reaction. If you have a sensitive stomach or a sensitive nervous system, your body might respond in a different way. This could be due to visceral sensitivity, where the gut reacts strongly to things like pills, or hypervigilance, where your brain closely watches your body and overreacts to normal feelings after taking medicine.

These reactions can cause symptoms like nausea, cramping, bloating, or feeling lightheaded—but they are not dangerous allergies. Understanding this can help you feel less afraid and work with your doctor to manage the symptoms. You may still be able to take the medicine safely with some adjustments or calming techniques.

📚 References (APA Style)

• Drossman, D. A. (2016). Functional gastrointestinal disorders: history, pathophysiology, clinical features and Rome IV. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1262–1279.e2. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.032

• Van Oudenhove, L., & Aziz, Q. (2013). The role of psychosocial factors and psychiatric disorders in functional dyspepsia. Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 10(3), 158–167. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrgastro.2013.10

Bloating is a common gut symptom that can make your belly feel stretched, swollen, or full—like there’s a balloon inside pushing out. Even if your stomach doesn’t look bigger on the outside, it might still feel uncomfortable on the inside. You might also feel pressure, have more gas or burping, or notice that your clothes feel tighter. These feelings can come and go throughout the day.

Bloating isn’t always caused by eating too much. It can happen because of gas, slowed digestion, food sensitivities, or even how the brain and gut are communicating. People with conditions like IBS or other gut disorders often feel bloated even when everything looks normal on scans or tests. But just because it’s invisible doesn’t mean it’s not real—or treatable.

📚 References (APA Style)

• Simrén, M., Barbara, G., Flint, H. J., et al. (2013). Intestinal microbiota in functional bowel disorders: a Rome foundation report. Gut, 62(1), 159–176. https://doi.org/10.1136/gutjnl-2012-302167
  Chial, H. J., Camilleri, M., Williams, D. E., et al. (2002). Bloating and visible abdominal distention: a study of the relationship between symptoms and objective measures. Gastroenterology, 123(4), 1238–1245. https://doi.org/10.1053/gast.2002.36027

This infographic shows how your brain and belly work together when you feel bloated. First, your belly stretches from gas, food, or slow digestion. Then, nerves in your gut send signals to your brain. Your brain gets the message and can make you feel full, tight, or uncomfortable—even if there’s no serious problem. Sometimes, feelings like stress or worry can make your brain pay even more attention to the bloating, which can make it feel worse.

This kind of gut-brain response is common in people with IBS and other gut conditions. It doesn’t mean something is dangerous—it just means your body is more sensitive. Learning how your gut and brain talk to each other can help you manage your symptoms with tools like relaxation, breathing, or mindful eating.

📚 References (APA Style)

• Mayer, E. A., Labus, J. S., Tillisch, K., Cole, S. W., & Baldi, P. (2015). Towards a systems view of gut–brain communication: Implications for diagnosis and treatment of functional GI disorders. Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 12(10), 573–586. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrgastro.2015.191

• Aziz, Q., & Thompson, D. G. (1998). Brain–gut axis in health and disease. Gastroenterology, 114(3), 559–578. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0016-5085(98)70586-1
  
  

This infographic explains that Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction, or DGBIs, like IBS, functional dyspepsia, and functional heartburn, are not curable—but they can be managed. These conditions happen when the brain and gut stop working well together. The symptoms, like stomach pain, bloating, or heartburn, are not dangerous, but they can still make daily life hard and uncomfortable.

The good news is that many people feel better with the right treatment. Doctors can help control symptoms using medications, changes in diet, and behavioral therapy like stress management or relaxation techniques. Even though DGBIs don’t go away completely, many people live well and feel more in control once they find what works for them.

References

1. Drossman, D. A., & Hasler, W. L. (2016). Rome IV—Functional GI disorders: Disorders of gut-brain interaction. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1257–1261. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.033

2. Chey, W. D., Kurlander, J., & Eswaran, S. (2015). Irritable bowel syndrome: A clinical review. JAMA, 313(9), 949–958. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2015.0954

This infographic explains that Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBIs) are health problems like IBS, functional dyspepsia, and functional heartburn. These conditions happen when the brain and gut do not work well together. The symptoms—such as stomach pain, bloating, or heartburn—can last a long time and be uncomfortable. Even though these conditions are not dangerous, they can affect your daily life.

DGBIs cannot be cured, but they can be managed. Doctors can help control symptoms using medicine, diet changes, and mind-body tools like relaxation or therapy. The goal is to help you feel better and live well, even if the condition doesn’t go away completely. Many people with DGBIs feel much better with the right treatment plan.

References

1. Drossman, D. A., & Hasler, W. L. (2016). Rome IV—Functional GI disorders: Disorders of gut-brain interaction. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1257–1261. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.033

2. Chey, W. D., Kurlander, J., & Eswaran, S. (2015). Irritable bowel syndrome: A clinical review. JAMA, 313(9), 949–958. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2015.0954

Your brain and your gut are closely connected, like best friends that talk all the time. When you feel stressed, worried, or scared, your gut can feel it too — leading to pain, bloating, or bathroom problems. But when you relax your mind with deep breathing, meditation, or calming activities, your gut often feels better. This is because relaxing helps turn off the “stress” signals and turns on the “rest and heal” signals in your body. Taking care of your mind is a powerful way to help your stomach feel calm and work better.

References

1. Mayer, E. A. (2011). Gut feelings: The emerging biology of gut–brain communication. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 12(8), 453–466. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3071

2. Drossman, D. A., & Hasler, W. L. (2016). Rome IV—Functional GI disorders: Disorders of gut-brain interaction. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1257–1261. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.033

3. Lackner, J. M., Jaccard, J., & Keefer, L. (2018). Improvement in gastrointestinal symptoms after cognitive behavior therapy for refractory irritable bowel syndrome. Gastroenterology, 155(1), 47–57. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2018.03.063

4. Chougule, A., Nayar, K., & Kamath, A. (2021). Mind–body interventions for irritable bowel syndrome: A systematic review. Cureus, 13(5), e14947. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.14947

This infographic explains how a psychologist can help people with long-lasting stomach or gut problems. Many GI symptoms, like pain, bloating, or changes in bathroom habits, are linked to how the brain and gut work together. A psychologist can help find what might be triggering symptoms, like stress, emotions, or habits. They can also teach helpful ways to manage stress, such as deep breathing or relaxation techniques, which may calm the gut and reduce discomfort.

Talking to a psychologist may also improve your quality of life. Even if tests are normal, your symptoms are real — and feeling better mentally can help your body feel better too. Psychologists are trained to help you deal with chronic illness and find ways to feel more in control of your health.

References

1. Drossman, D. A., & Hasler, W. L. (2016). Rome IV—Functional GI disorders: Disorders of gut-brain interaction. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1257–1261. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.02.033

2. Lackner, J. M., Jaccard, J., & Keefer, L. (2018). Improvement in gastrointestinal symptoms after cognitive behavior therapy for refractory irritable bowel syndrome. Gastroenterology, 155(1), 47–57. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2018.03.063