The Mental Load of IBS

By Karina

3 min read

As IBS sufferers, we often talk about the physical symptoms of the illness. The urgency, the cramps, the painful bloating – they're terrible. But there's so much more to it. Even when my body is feeling fine, my mind still thinks about IBS. It never truly leaves me. And to me, that's one of the hardest parts about living with IBS.

The unpredictability of flares

Whenever I leave the house, I worry about getting sick. Even when I'm feeling perfectly well, even when I'm just going out for half an hour. IBS is unpredictable, so my mind is always wary of what my body might do.

I can't remember a time when I left the comfort of my home without feeling any anxiety at all. When I was excited to go somewhere without being very worried at the same time. It's not that I want to stay home all day long (I really don't). But there's some part of me that does believe it would be easier.

Every meal feels like taking a risk

Do you ever enjoy a meal without worrying about what it might entail? I know I don't. And it doesn't even matter what I eat. If I opt for fruits or vegetables, I worry about not tolerating them today. When I eat my ultimate safe food, white rice with chicken, I wonder if the chicken was fresh enough and if the rice didn't sit outside for too long when I cooked it last night.

I know that these thoughts aren't all related to IBS. I'm generally so scared of getting sick, whether it's a flare or, worse, an actual stomach bug. I know that no one likes to be ill, but I would love not to think about it every time I try to eat something.

A fear of flares

On a similar note, I've noticed that my anxiety has centered on the fear of getting an IBS-D flare. No matter what the source of my worry is, it always comes down to this. It's like the fear of having a flare is a symptom of an overall anxious state of mine.

I might be worried about my son getting sick again, and my mind goes straight to: "but what if he's sick AND you're sick, and you can't even take care of him?" When I stress about a doctor's appointment, I not only worry about getting bad news but also about having a flare. It makes no sense, but it makes everything worse. And, of course, the added stress does nothing good for my digestive system.

IBS dreams

Sometimes, IBS follows me in my dreams, too. Not usually in the form of flares, though. I often dream of looking for a bathroom, but when I find one, I realize that someone turned it into a theatre, a classroom, a library, or something of that sort. I'm pretty sure that's my brain's way of reminding me that I spend my waking hours secretly scared of not having a private bathroom near me.

I'm not sure if any of you can relate to these things, but IBS consumes me every day, even when I've been feeling well for weeks. I can be having a great time in general, but a small voice in the back of my mind constantly reminds me that the good feeling might not last.

I do realize that I probably have a problem with anxiety since none of this is directly related to physical symptoms of IBS but rather my psychological response to them. I wonder if anyone has tried therapy for IBS-related anxiety? If you have, please let me know about your experience!

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The IrritableBowelSyndrome.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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CommunityMember968 Member
IBS rules my life, I rarely go out because I am in pain and need to be close to the bathroom, it makes me feel sick all over not just pain, I can’t go anywhere.. meditation only helps so much.. it doesn’t matter what I eat, just that I eat, I am in pain no matter what I eat.. I only eat 1 meal a day to try and not make it worse 
1. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember968" user-id="2316640"/> I'm so sorry that your symptoms are so bad, that must be so incredibly hard. I suppose that you've had all the tests done to rule out other illnesses? Have you tried seeing a naturopath or a dietitian? Recently several community members have shared that their digestive issues were related to spine/neck/back injuries and resolving those made the IBS better. I don't know if that could apply to you, I just wanted to share that just in case. Sending hugs, Karina (team member)
Lady drummer Member
All the things that people have posted apply to me. I constantly have nightmares about having a D attack. I have been arrested by police several times for voiding in a public place. Anxiety because of IBS is second nature to me. I will lie on my deathbed worrying about it. My life has been without romance for 44 years because of this. However, I am still a happy person and well loved and appreciated by friends and family. There is one way of making sure that nothing untoward will occur and that is of course by total fasting on the day when it is crucial to be dignified. The second best way is to take a ginger capsule three times a day and only eat a proper meal just before bed. I have been well for about two years now but I will NEVER trust my gut. I love you all and wish only the best for you. Lady drummer. 
1. Elizabeth Alvarez Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Lady drummer" user-id="6760312"/> Thank you for sharing your tips. I'm glad to hear that despite all you go through you choose to be happy and are appreciated by friends and family. I do hope you get more relief soon though. You deserve it. -Elizabeth (team member)
Njf0618 Member
I really understand how you feel and I can feel great and only a few minutes later need to go so I don't always get a lot of lead time but I do try and use what I can in the way of medication if I'm not at or near home when I start feeling uncomfortable. I try and just keep myself in a relaxed state and not get overly anxious. In years gone by I've had panic attacks so I just have to kind of work with myself and try and not let the adrenaline start so that I can have a better outcome. I often wonder what it must be like to just eat whatever and not worry and to not have the possibility of diarrhea control my meal choices instead of what I'd really like to eat. At least here I find people who totally understand. P.S. I've never dreamed of needing to poo just needing to pee and finding a bathroom
1. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Njf0618" user-id="4832334"/> Trying to stay in a relaxed state makes a world of a difference. I'm not very good at it, but I really try doing breathing techniques when I start feeling uncomfortable, otherwise my mind goes into panic mode and this makes it so much worse. I've had so many situations where I thought that I desperately needed a bathroom, only to then realize that I didn't even need one and the feeling of urgency was only due to me panicking. It's such a vicious cycle. Thanks so much for sharing your experience! Karina (team member)
CommunityMember3036da Member
Yes I had similar anxiety which created vicious cycle. My GP prescribed anxiety medication which I was hesitant to start. It has helped me a great deal. Also if I want to go somewhere where there are no public toilets, eg the beach, I take Immodium. Last week I wanted to go to a small community where I know there is only 1 bathroom, so I took immodium. I'm determined I will manage IBS, it will not manage how I live my life. I also use utube meditation for the wretched pain. I hate it when I get half way around the supermarket and then having to make a run for it, or the dog park and having to drive home. I always wear black shorts/jeans to places with no facities. My symptoms have definitely become more manageable with anti anxiety meds and making myself go out even when I have that feeling of dread. I've have a flare up that started last November but it is finally easing.
1. deanc Member
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember3036da" user-id="8435271"/> Wearing a Depends (yuck, yes ) gives me a little extra confidence, when I'm better, and can venture out with maybe only a little accident while running for the bathroom! 
2. Elizabeth Alvarez Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="deanc" user-id="2282019"/> I hear you. I wear ultra thin feminine pads every single day. It offers me a barrier of protection just in case. And honestly it mostly happens when I run to the bathroom and there is a little accident on the way. We have to do what we have to do in order to function. And if that means a Depends or a pad, so be it. I hope you are well today. -Elizabeth (team member)
sehoy123 Member
I am also in the camp of "food is the enemy." I tell people it all tastes good. It's what happens after that's the problem. I have been very fortunate to not have had an "accident" but the fear of it happening rules my mind. Even now with the onset of Parkinson's related constipation. Of course, for those of us with severe IBSD, constipation is NIRVANA and actually results in our systems functioning in a more normal capacity with much reduced intensity of my overall symptoms. Yet my mind still obsesses over the potential of a reaction. I have had therapy twice over the years during particularly bad flares. I was diagnosed with Social Anxiety - go figure! Some of the coping strategies and stress reduction strategies are useful/helpful overall. I still use one of the breathing exercises and the combatting negative self talk strategies when needed. Therapy is very personal with some getting a lot out of the treatment while others don't. I say, if you are feeling overwhelmed and your current coping strategies aren't helping, try therapy. It won't stop your symptoms, but it can teach you things to help mitigate the stress/anxiety feedback loop that exacerbates our symptoms.
1. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="sehoy123" user-id="4599587"/> Thanks so much for sharing you experience, I've always been curious about therapy! The only reason why I haven't done it yet it because it's so expensive where I live. I might need to try it anyway. I feel you on the constipation being a relief. I felt the same with pregnancy constipation, it made me feel like a normal human being for once. Wishing you a symptom-free day, Karina (team member)
Njf0618 Member
I know in a matter of minutes I can go from feeling just fine to needing to go really bad so my IBS doesn't always give me much warning. I do try not to stress as I know that can really help bring it on so I usually try to tell myself not to worry and it helps but there's always that time when it comes on so quickly. It sure doesn't help to worry so it's the one thing I try and work with myself on and always try to be careful with what I eat before I travel. I used to think - before I found this group that there were very few people that felt this way and I don't want to say I'm glad to find out I'm not alone as I feel so bad to know there are people that have it as bad or worse and are close to home bound over this. It is nice to read about the up and downs shared by everyone and I like the ideas and it does make me feel better that I'm not alone in this.... 
1. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Njf0618" user-id="4832334"/> The sudden urgency is such a terrible part of IBS, I can relate to that. I'm glad that you find this community helpful. I feels nice to know that we're not alone, even though we don't wish this on anyone. We're so glad to have you here! Karina (team member)
JuliaD Member
 Hi Karina, I wanted to share 2 helpful things I’ve found that relate to the anxiety that comes with IBS. Hopefully these 2 things might be helpful for anyone reading this who feels stuck on their IBS journey. These 2 things are: 1. Hypnotherapy - Nerva app 2. The Gut Show podcast from Erin Judge I signed up to this site just so I could leave this message because I relate to almost all of what you wrote, the even the weird bathroom dreams! (Except mine always involve disappearing toilet doors). My IBS(D) and anxiety seem to love each other and feed off each other in some kind of unhealthy codependent relationship. And after a while it’s hard to really tell what decisions I’m making authentically, and what decisions my anxiety is making without me realising. Like did I actually want to leave my new boyfriends house really early that morning because I had lots on that day? Or was I terrified of what my bathroom experience might be like that morning and didn’t want him to hear (or smell) anything so escaped to avoid a potentially embarrassing situation? Anyway, I’ve started seeing a psychologist who specialises in IBS through hypnotherapy, and yep, it’s expensive, BUT I was also put onto an app called Nerva. This app is expensive too but way less than regular psych visits, and it’s actually pretty good. It guides you through a hypno recording every day for 6 weeks, plus some readings. If it’s not something you know much about or it sounds a bit weird, there’s a good episode on the ‘All in the Mind’ podcast on gut directed hypnotherapy called “Treating IBS with…Hypnotherpy?”. The other thing that has helped a lot, is following dietitian Erin Judge, she has an awesome podcast called ‘The Gut Show’ that is just so spot on in talking about all the things that come with IBS (not just food related) like how we self sabotage when we get frustrated or stuck in our journeys, and negative body image issues. She’s also super open and full of good, practical tips like how to sit on the toilet better or how to get a better toilet routine. So to any people still struggling with their IBS journey and where to go next, I highly recommend these 2 things: - Nerva app, and - The Gut Show podcast from Erin Judge If anyone reading this is struggling, the thing that helps me most is remembering that this is a slow, long game. So try to keep nurturing yourself, because I know how easy shame, self loathing and self sabotage can set in. And our lives can be better than that 😀 - Julia x
1. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 Hi <inline-mention username="JuliaD" user-id="8580122"/>, thank you so much for sharing these with us. I completely relate to your experience with making decisions that are based on anxiety rather than what we really want. And I imagine that the disappearing doors in your dreams must be very stressful! I've tried the Nerva app before and it helped me a lot, especially with staying calm when I start getting symptoms. As for the podcast, I had never heard of it but I will listen to it, it sounds great. Your comment will be so helpful for other community members as well, there's many of us who suffer from both IBS and anxiety. I hope you're having a symptom-free day today! Wishing you all the best, Karina (team member)
sueshi Member
Im pretty sure many people can relate to how you feel. When I was reading this, I thought, “yep, I could have written this”. It is an awful feeling and I have lived with it for 30 years. Here are some things I have done to help calm the symptoms. Realize your triggers (and yes stress about pooping your pants is the worst stress). I always carry an emergency pack, ie immodium, depends or clean undies, wet wipes. I avoid fake sugars, soda of any kind, msg, cheap preservative filled lunchmeats (especially any fast foods like s*bway). Coffee is a trigger but I drink it first thing in morning when Im home. I love Starbucks, but sadly always a trigger. Lastly I was put on an antidepressant that also helps my anxiety and I have learned to breathe better…breathe in for count of 4, and exhale for 4. My husband is very aware of my IBS and is very supportive. It has also helped to tell my best friends. More people have IBS than you may think and their support really helps calm my anxiety. Best of luck
1. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="sueshi" user-id="2333639"/> Thank you so much for sharing these tips, that's so helpful. I'm sorry that you've been dealing with this for 30 years, but it's nice that your husband and close friends understanding and supportive. Avoiding artificial sugars, having an emergency pack and learning breathing techniques helps so much. I'm still trying to learn how to deal with stress though, as that's by far my worst trigger as well. How have you been feeling lately? Karina (team member)
1Enfermita Member
Hi also relate to most of the comments here, the anxiety and fear of having a flare up while you are out with friends, or traveling or in a meeting, my doctor prescribed me a mild sedative that I will take only when necessary, I tried everything to calm myself down, I no longer eat whatever I want, everywhere I am going I have to prepare myself, take anti diarrhea medication, wear protective underwear, eat very little or nothing at all and make sure there is a bathroom nearby, it really is such a vicious disease, because of the shame and the anxiety involved, hard to explain to anyone, as everyone else in this group I am so thankful to be able to share our experiences, pain and suffering but also ideas of how to cope with it, I am doing my best not to let it consume me, sometimes I do fine for a few days but I know it won't last no matter what I do, I pray for myself and everyone that suffers from this, I recognize there are worse things others have to go through but we IBS sufferers can't even talk about it and have our peers and family fully understand, this is what I hear: "ok so you have stomach issues, just be careful with what you eat, that's all, you'll be fine" - OH NO, it doesn't matter what I eat, my body could react negatively even if I just have tea and toast,. thank you all for letting me vent here. God Bless
1. Elizabeth Alvarez Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="1Enfermita" user-id="4214134"/> Thank you for sharing your thoughts. You are not alone. I can relate 100%. Unless you have IBS you cannot truly understand it's complexities. Like you say, just having tea or even water can set things off. And all the planning you have to do to go out in public is exhausting. Where are the bathrooms? What will we be eating? What do I need to bring with me to be prepared? It's endless. I hope today is a better day. You aren't alone. But I will say things get better. I changed my diet and found that wheat was huge culprit for me. -Elizabeth (team member)
2. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="1Enfermita" user-id="4214134"/> The anxiety and shame about IBS symptoms makes it so hard, I completely agree. It's easy to explain to someone that you have a headache, it's so much harder to share that you've been going to the bathroom 10 times in the last hour. Even when people understand, it's still terrible to get these symptoms around others. 🙁 I'm so glad that this community helps you cope a little bit. It's the same for me, it feels nice to know that we're not alone. People who don't have IBS just can't understand what it's like and how unpredictable it can be and how hard it is do even leave the house sometimes. How have you been doing the past few days? Sending big hugs, Karina (team member)
nanniedotdot Member
I understand where you are coming from. I have always suffered with anxiety, to a degree. But my anxiety is ten fold when I have to leave my home because of the accidents I have had with my IBS D with urgency! Without doubt it has taken over my life, impacting on all that I do, and can ruin what should be fun occasions. 
1. Elizabeth Alvarez Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="nanniedotdot" user-id="2321852"/> I hear you. You aren't alone. The anxiety can be so hard to get under control, but it is totally warranted. Who would be calm about going out in public and having a possible accident? It would be strange if you weren't anxious, right? Oh the things we go through with IBS. I hope you are feeling okay today. Hugs, Elizabeth (team member)
2. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="nanniedotdot" user-id="2321852"/> I'm so sorry that it impacts your life so much. It's hard to enjoy things when you always have to be prepared for a potential flare, I can relate to that so much. 🙁 Have you found any ways to calm your anxiety? I've been working on that for the past months and I've gotten better with everyday life, but as soon as things change and become stressful, my anxiety and IBS get so bad. Sending hugs, Karina (team member)
Pooppy Member
Anxiety.... I can remember experiencing THAT since I was very young about food. Back the CD was foreign, all the more not known to MDs around the world not in Elite circles! So, at meal time, I was famished but scared to eat. The bloating, the pain, the flatulance, diarreha, & mockery; it was sheer anxiety everyday until I left at 17 for the USN. Where my diet, then dormant CD, and me got to enjoy eating around the world. Now, I've learned so much about CD (diagnosed late in life) thanks to this group! Yes, I must watch my diet like a Hawk because ONLY I can avoid flares up (5%) & CD dictates to agree with Humira or not! (95%). The looks I get from some of the foods I order, but I'm happy!😋🫰
1. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Pooppy" user-id="6709294"/> I'm so sorry that it took you so long to get diagnosed and that you had to suffer for so long without knowing what was wrong, and at such a young age. 🙁 I feel you on the looks people give you when ordering food. But they can't understand, so all that matters is that they work for you! Thank you so much for sharing your experience. 😀 Karina (team member)
deanc Member
<inline-mention username="Karina" user-id="2303467"/> So sorry and understand what you are facing. Want to share two experiences. I was diagnosed with IBS, also anxiety and depression and had previously had collagenous colitis . I worked with a dietician and started the FODMAP diet. Unfortunately, nothing was helping and couldn't get off the first phase! Per her recommendation, I was tested for fructose and lactose intolerance and was severely fructose intolerant and borderline lactose(was told to consider that intolerant). Went to a modified FODMAP diet....no success. Seemed to be no rhyme or reason to what foods I ate. Kept telling Dr. the symptoms were so much worse like when had the collagenous but they kept saying the last tests were negative (it can only be detected by biopsies with colonoscopy). I was referred for Functional Therapy (combines therapy for anxiety/depression with gastro issues which did sound like a logical thing). But before it could happen It became so severe that would wake up to a bed full of diarrhea or not make it to bathroom at home. Finally called Dr. office and refused to get off phone until I could talk to someone who could help me! Finally, new nurse took my call and listened. Had a colonoscopy and positive for collagenous colitis which has nothing to do with food. It is a bacterial infection! I have since moved and have a new gastro doctor. He is even unsure of the fructose/lactose results and thinks collagenous may be responsible for everything (possibly even IBS symptoms). Treatment involves steroids being tapered off for 12 weeks and USUALLY that's it. BUT, I get down to 1 and wham, it starts again! He just discovered some early research that seems to indicate a link between Cymbalta (my anti-depressant) and Collagenous colitis! Am tapering off Cymbalta, had another procedure to confirm the colitis, no results back yet, and have tapered to one steroid yesterday. Soooo, awaiting the next few days on one and results of test. Wanted to say to you (1.) I so empathize (2.) make sure everything else has been ruled out (3.) don't give up pushing for anything that concerns you or you might feel, in your gut....no pun intended...isn't right! 
1. Hope for healing Member
 <inline-mention username="Karina" user-id="2303467"/> I'm so sorry for what you're going through with Collagenous colitis. My mom suffered from it for years and it's very very difficult. I hope your new GI can help you find answers. One thing I read when doing research is that a low residue diet can help c.colitis. Although, as someone with IBS, I know there are days that it doesn't seem to matter how carefully you eat. I had one doctor tell me that if the episodes happen in the day it's IBS, but if they happen at night it's colitis. I've always been afraid my IBS would progress into colitis, so he wanted me to know the symptoms are different.
2. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 I'm tagging <inline-mention username="deanc" user-id="2282019"/>, the comment above was meant for you! Karina (team member)
Worrywart Member
That is me!!! I could have written that article. I am sad and frustrated that IBS is controlling my life. 😢 
1. Worrywart Member
 Thank you, I sat by the lake and watched the boaters, kayakers and geese. The air was chilly but the sky and clouds were beautiful! 
2. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Worrywart" user-id="8609675"/> That sounds so lovely and peaceful! 😀 I'm glad you were able to enjoy that. Wishing you all the best, Karina (team member)
trishak913 Member
I have that same recurring nightmare some nights of not finding a toilet…. I wake up exhausted!
1. Elizabeth Alvarez Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Worrywart" user-id="8609675"/> I can relate. I've actually had to do this in real life before. Not fun. I hope you are feeling okay today. Best, Elizabeth (team member)
2. Elizabeth Alvarez Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="trishak913" user-id="4707393"/> That is so horrible. I don't get these dreams but I have experienced similar in real life. Times where you are clenching, make it to a stall only to see the dreaded sign of "out of order." The absolute worst. How have you been feeling lately? I hope you are managing symptoms okay. Hugs, Elizabeth (team member)
Jersy Girl Member
Almost every nail was hit on the head in this essay. Saying misery loves company seems rather mean, but it is comforting to know that some people understand the thinking that goes along with this illness. It's always there. Hiding behind the next sandwich, waiting to attack.And, yes, taunting me in dreams as well. I've often thought what I could have been if this anxiety didn't plague me. Perhaps I'd have run for a political office. But I could never get behind a microphone after eating a rubber chicken - or any dinner. I've had IBS since I was a little kid, Now I'm an old lady. But my mono-maniacal thinking about it has not changed. I thank God of a husband of 50 years who has tolerated my problems and has alway been kind enough to make a U-turn to get me to a bathroom NOW! What a long, strange trip it's been - having shit on your mind every day. But I've had a wonderful life, and I pray for everyone who is facing any kind of illness. 
1. Elizabeth Alvarez Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Jersy Girl" user-id="4254087"/> I can so relate to all that you are saying. It is so true, you constantly have sh*t on your mind haha. I laugh because if not I'll cry. It is definitely comforting to know you aren't alone in this strange IBS journey. I am so glad that you have had the support of your husband. Having support makes all the difference. I hope you are doing well lately. Perhaps having less symptoms? Stay well, Elizabeth (team member)
2. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Jersy Girl" user-id="4254087"/> I'm glad that you found this article comforting. It's so nice to know that we're not alone and I completely relate to not being able to plan on doing anything after a meal. We just never know what will happen after we eat. I'm sorry that you weren't able to run for a political office. It's great that you have such a supportive husband though and that you've had a wonderful life. That's reassuring to know, that it's possible to deal with IBS and still have a good life. Wishing you all the best, Karina (team member)
njdrn1 Member
I can totally relate to <inline-mention username="claywade" user-id="2285430"/> IBSD has made my life hell. Mine started in my early 30’s. It has been miserable.Here I am at the age of 59 and I still have it. It tops the chart along with my bladder spasms which causes incontinence of urine. It’s not fun.
1. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="njdrn1" user-id="2322560"/> I'm so sorry that you're dealing with all this. 🙁 We have this article about the correlation between bladder problems and IBS, in case you're interested: <a href='https://irritablebowelsyndrome.net/clinical/bladder-problems' target='_blank'>https://irritablebowelsyndrome.net/clinical/bladder-problems</a>. You're not alone with this. But it's miserable indeed. Have you found anything at all that helps with your symptoms, like diet changes, stress management, medication...? Sending big hugs, Karina (team member)
ArualLaura Member
I definitely had anxiety about going away or even out somewhere, usually after lunch, that is when I would have diarheas a few times a week. I have seen a psychologist to get some cognitive behavior therapy and it is very useful. But along with those techniques, I am super careful with fodmaps these days and after having trouble with IBS for ten years, I must say I don’t have much trouble anymore. So that gives me the confidence to head out and live my life. For sure, I would recommend a therapist and maybe checking your fodmap intake to lessen the episodes? Like one of my boys said to me, Mom, what is the worst possible thing that could happen to you when you are out? Youcould have an accident, you would be embarrassed, but you would survive, you wouldn’t die!
1. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="ArualLaura" user-id="6649348"/> I'm so glad that therapy and avoiding FODMAPs has helped you and you're now able to enjoy life again! Thank you so much for sharing what works for you. I'd love to see a therapist, but unfortunately it's too expensive for me right now. 🙁 I've been trying to use free resources on YouTube and it's been helping a bit, although I'm sure that a targeted approach would be better. I absolutely love what your boy said, that's true and in helps put things into perspective. It sure feels like I would die if I had an accident, but that's not the case. Wishing you all the best, Karina (team member)
hateibs Member
<inline-mention username="Karina" user-id="2303467"/> I do hear you about the food aspect of IBS. I can just remember that last time I ate dinner without having to worry about anything. That was on the evening of 5th March 2020, when I ate one of my favourite yummy dinners: red lentil stew with broccoli florets and quartered onions, lots of pepper, organic stock with herbs, and grated garlic for the last 2 minutes of cooking. I ate that with some lovely toasted crusty bread with lashings of butter. All "as usual" of course. What happened the next morning was the beginning of my IBS journey, because what happened that morning never ever really went away. I learned this, and that, I learned how to manage, I learned my personal "fibre balance". that I could not really eat many foods I was accustomed to any more. I learned how to adapt and survive. I even learned how to gradually increase my list of edible vegetables and how to experiment (often quite successfully) with "dangerous" things like fresh Walnuts, beetroot, peanut butter, celery sticks.... But one thing I have never been able to learn since 2020 is how to feel like I did before about food, ( i.e. nothing....except the enjoyment of it.) Those days are gone. My diet is dictated now by how my bowels are on any given morning. It certainly adds another dimension to "saying Grace" before eating, as I am now tremendously thankful for eating anything at all, and especially so if I have been able to eat ANY food that I used to be able to eat a few years ago. But as you say, IBS is so unpredictable that at any moment, even some positive improvements can be snatched away and we can feel horribly unwell again with only rice and protein foods tolerable. It is a daily battle, Even when we don't feel too bad, it always hangs over us, and with some amount of PTSD attached to it, I believe.
1. hateibs Member
 <inline-mention username="Karina" user-id="2303467"/> Yes, I used to "fall for it" when my IBS went quiet, and I was completely normal. I always thought it had gone away. Now I know it hasn't really, but it's nice to get some easy times. I don't know why, because things are still fairly stressful. I hope your trip that you said will be a bit stressful isn't too bad for you, and it will be nice to have that book to look forward to reading. So I wish you a smooth journey, anyway. I doubt if the issues I am involved in will be over by Christmas, but I do hope I will finish the job I have to travel for in December and make it back home for Christmas. The problem with the UK is the slowness of getting around, the crowded trains, the mad rush because Christmas is coming, etc. so wish me well for getting home again for some peace and a rest! Thank you Karina for your positive thoughts. I send the same to you.
2. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 Thank you <inline-mention username="hateibs" user-id="4146293"/>. I wish you the best of luck with the entire trip and job you have to do, so that you're home for Christmas and can finally have some much deserved rest from all the rest. Bigs hugs, Karina (team member)
CommunityMember6b0d05 Member
If I/m going out I make sure I take 2 Imodium and hour before I leave.
1. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember6b0d05" user-id="6782412"/> Thank you so much for sharing what works for you! How have you been feeling lately? Karina (team member)
roger-knightley Member
So sorry to hear this. You just about describe my exact state of mind. I tried the Nerva app for a while and found it slightly helpful and sometimes go back to their meditations.
1. Elizabeth Alvarez Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="roger-knightley" user-id="2331552"/> How have you been feeling lately? Any improvements? I hope you are doing okay today. Hugs, Elizabeth (team member)
2. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="roger-knightley" user-id="2331552"/> I'm sorry that you feel like that, too. I have tried Nerva as well and have found it quite helpful. Do you keep subscribing to te app or how do you access their mediations? I hope you've been doing okay lately. Hugs, Karina (team member)
roger-knightley Member
I worked through all the meditations for three months and found I had covered all of the programme, which is fairly expensive but worthwhile. I now feel I have an extra tool to use though I can't say it is always effective. Thanks for the thoughts.
1. Elizabeth Alvarez Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="roger-knightley" user-id="2331552"/> That's great that you feel as though you have an extra tool to get you through. Glad you found the program worthwhile. I hope you are feeling well today and having minimal symptoms. Best, Elizabeth (team member)
2. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="roger-knightley" user-id="2331552"/> That's what I did, too. I just wish there was a way to access their maintenance plan for a lower price. I hope you're having a gentle and symptom-free day today! Karina (team member)
DEATHDARKBITCH Member
The last week has been hell. Throwing up and gagging non stop. Sweating like hell. Non stop nose running like a tap makes my hiatal hernia even worse. Can't eat anything. Just looking at my tablets makes me puke. 
1. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="DEATHDARKBITCH" user-id="4250368"/> I’m so, so sorry you’ve been going through that! Are these symptoms of IBS for you, or are you dealing with something else that causes these? I really hope you’ll start feeling better soon. 🙁 Sending positive thoughts, Karina (team member)
CommunityMember90e971 Member
I suffer everyday for more than 10 years. Cant leave the house before noon and then I haven't really eaten much before I go. All doctors appointments made after 1pm. Not much of a life
1. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember90e971" user-id="8850072"/> I can relate so much. Appointments in the morning are so hard, and suffering every day just feels so unfair. 🙁 We have an article about morning IBS here: <a href='https://irritablebowelsyndrome.net/living/morning-anxiety' target='_blank'>https://irritablebowelsyndrome.net/living/morning-anxiety</a>, so many of us are struggling with it… Do you at least get a break from symptoms in the afternoons? Big hugs, Karina (team member)
hateibs Member
<inline-mention username="Karina" user-id="2303467"/> You know what? All my life, if ever I got ill, I always got better, got over it completely and it passed into history, so became a mostly forgotten thing. So when I first got IBS I subconsciously expected the same thing to happen. When it repeatedly refused to follow that normal pattern I'd always had, and became an enemy that no matter what I did, kept on coming back at me, at unexpected times, and often invisible around the next unsuspected corner, I think it messed with my mental health a bit. Before I got used to living with IBS and its ups and downs, I was so dismayed at something that could come and hit me at any moment whether I saw it coming or not and for no cause that I could understand, that I thought I had to be dying of something, as everything I'd ever had ALWAYS went away, and IBS didn't. It kept on coming back even when I started to "feel better", I think that's hard for the mind to take to be honest. I have got a lot more used to it now. I have found strategies to manage my symptoms so they are no way as bad as they once were, (for instance I learned not to eat lentil and onion stew, as one small example! ) I mean...duhhh! That took me literally weeks to figure out, because I'd eaten that for something like 40 years and my brain couldn't compute "nice healthy comfort food" with my symptoms!) But yes, the effects of IBS on the mind (and probably vice-versa too) shouldn't be underestimated.
1. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="hateibs" user-id="4146293"/> Being hit by a chronic illness when all you’ve ever known are normal illnesses is really hard. I also remember feeling so desperate when I realised that IBS wasn’t going to go away, it felt like my life was over… I wish doctors would talk more about the effects of these illnesses on our mental health and what can be done to help with that. Like you said, the vicious cycle between IBS and mental health shouldn’t be underestimated! Karina (team member)
mktggirl Member
Bringing this article back up in the IBS newsletter reminded me of this topic, so even if the writing is years old our daily experience is always top of mind. IBS is a burden we carry with us all the time. One doctor described it that we are like racers lined up at the starting line but we start each day with a sprained ankle. It sure feels like that. The part about getting anxious about doctor's appointments hit home with me. I had a Gastro virtual appointment set up and tried to use the bathroom before, but after logging in 5 minutes early I still had to dash to the bathroom, and this was not even leaving my house! The Gastro was checking to see if I'd skipped when I rushed back and could explain "that, that is exactly what I'm sick of dealing with". No matter good stress or bad, we feel it in our guts.
1. mktggirl Member
 <inline-mention username="Karina" user-id="2303467"/> yes, thankfully I've found the right combination of prescriptions and over the counter that I'm good most days. But of course I try new fiber supplements thinking it would be easier for this type over that, and then I've been in a flare for days. I feel I should know better and stick with what works, but heck even what works most of the time fails us sometimes. Sigh... Wishing you flare-free days. 
2. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="mktggirl" user-id="2314123"/> I'm happy to hear that you've found medications that work most of the time! It's for sure frustrating when flares happen despite doing everything right... I always try to remind myself that even healthy people don't feel perfect every single day. Wishing you flare-free days as well, Karina (team member)
Hope for healing Member
I relate to everything in this article. I've struggled with IBS since I was in college, and I'm now in my mid-60's. When I was younger I would go weeks at a time without a problem, but now it seems I only go 2-3 days. I've tried everything, even working with Diet vs. Disease in Australia and paying a boatload of money out of my own pocket because they don't take insurance. At least they helped me determine what foods I could eat at what levels on the Fodmap diet. They also ran some tests that specifically showed what type of bacteria I was missing so I could supplement the correct probiotics. I'm also a thyroid cancer survivor and it seems that adjusting my thyroid medicine or losing weight affects my IBS as well. It's all a delicate balancing act! I've been taking Citalopram for over 30 years and recently having my doctor double the dose seemed to really help calm the panic attacks I started having when traveling. One thing I wanted to mention is Sunfiber IBS, which is a special type of fiber made for IBS sufferers. It is approved by Monash University. It is very palatable and easy to mix into liquids. I take it every day. I don't know if we can post links here, but you can search for an article called, "The right fiber may help manage IBS symptoms - Sunfiber" on the internet.
1. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Hope for healing" user-id="8872541"/> I’m so sorry that you’ve been dealing with this for so long and no longer get more than a couple symptom-free days at a time, that’s so hard. 🙁 Having other issues in addition to IBS certainly doesn’t make it easier. I’m glad that you have found some things that help you though, thank you so much for sharing those! Big hugs, Karina (team member)
Njf0618 Member
You took the words or thoughts straight from my crazy brain. I use some old therapy lessons such as whats the worst that can happen or better yet to date what is the worst that has happened which hasn't been all that terrrible compared to some people I've read about - so far I've always managed to make it home or to a bathroom so I know I am fortunate that that is the case but my husband has had some pretty bad accidents so I know I could survive if that happened as well and we have some work arounds either in the car or nearby when we travel. I do worry about what I eat out especially - I don't get as worried when I will just be home or at work where a bathroom is very handy actually two at home and multiple at work. I can go from absolutely no problems to 5 minutes later I'm starting to have that weird feeling especially if I've eaten. Often it is on the way home - with home being about an hour away from eating out "in town" which is an hour out if we are up in the valley. I am my own worst enemy and I really do try to stay calm and that helps a lot but if the symptoms start coming I still try to relax as much as I can so I don't make things worse. It is always part of my thought system just like you.....
1. Njf0618 Member
 <inline-mention username="Karina" user-id="2303467"/> - I have tried tapping - I forget to do it as its something new to me but when I have used it it seems helpful
2. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Njf0618" user-id="4832334"/> I also tend to forget, especially on busy days. Recently, I've added a daily reminder on my phone and that has helped a lot! Karina (team member)
Jersey Member
I have IBS C
1. Karina Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Jersey" user-id="2305794"/> I'm sorry you're dealing with IBS-C. Have you seen our dedicated IBS-C forum: <a href='https://irritablebowelsyndrome.net/forums/ibs-c-forum-discussion' target='_blank'>https://irritablebowelsyndrome.net/forums/ibs-c-forum-discussion</a> to connect with others who deal with the same type of IBS? -Karina (team member)