Breaking the Stress-IBS Vicious Cycle Through Therapy

Stress and Irritable Bowel Syndrome are deeply interconnected. Stress often triggers IBS symptoms, and in turn, these symptoms create even more stress—forming a frustrating cycle. For years, I struggled with this loop, but one thing made a profound difference: therapy.

The impact of career pressure

I work in niche perfumery, a field I love. The creativity that surrounds me on a daily basis feeds my soul, along with my amazing colleagues. However, my recent promotion brought new responsibilities, tight deadlines, and travels abroad for product launches. The increased pressure took a toll on my health. After a long time, my IBS symptoms flared up—bloating, cramps, and unpredictable digestion became a constant struggle.

Finding the missing piece

At first, I tried managing it on my own, focusing on lifestyle changes. But no matter how much I adjusted my routine, my symptoms persisted. I then decided to go back to therapy, and it turned out to be the missing piece of the puzzle. I almost forgot how precious it can be.

Therapy helped me understand how my thoughts and stress responses directly influenced my body. I learned to identify triggers, manage anxieties, and develop coping strategies that reduced my stress levels. Talking through my worries to a professional provided the relief I hadn’t found elsewhere.

Breaking through perfectionism

One of the biggest breakthroughs was recognizing how perfectionism and pressure were feeding my stress. My therapist helped me set boundaries and shift my mindset around life expectations. I realized that I didn’t have to control everything. Letting go is the key to inner peace.

I can't do or control everything. I have to accept that I can do a certain amount of work during my office hours. It's wrong to punish ourselves for not reaching perfection.

Incorporating relaxation techniques

Another essential aspect was learning relaxation techniques tailored to my lifestyle. My therapist encouraged me to incorporate small, manageable changes instead of wanting to shift my whole schedule. Simple breath-work exercises while commuting, or taking a few minutes of meditation to pause during busy days made a noticeable difference.

Prioritizing rest and recovery

I also committed to prioritizing sleep, forcing myself to get at least 8.5 hours each night. Therapy reinforced how essential rest is for both mental and digestive health. This change alone had a significant impact on my well-being. I have more energy and I can face the day with a more positive attitude.

I know that reaching 8 hours of sleep can't be realistic for everyone, especially those who have kids of a flexible working schedule. However, those little "pills" of deep breaths during working hours, can really make the difference.

Regaining control

I'm finally learning how to break the cycle of stress and IBS, through therapy. While I still face challenges, I now have the tools to manage them in a way that doesn’t make me feel overwhelmed. Therapy provided the foundation I needed to regain control. Not just over my symptoms, but over my overall well-being.

For anyone struggling with stress-induced IBS, I highly recommend considering finding a good therapist. It’s not an instant fix, but it offers lasting strategies that address both the mental and physical aspects of the condition. There is a way out of the cycle, and with the right support, relief is possible.