CBT for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a long-term condition of the digestive system that is thought to affect up to one in five people throughout their life. The physical symptoms of IBS can be quite distressing, including stomach cramps, bowel issues and bloating.
The condition is very unpredictable and sufferers may switch between periods of remission and ‘flare-ups’, which are often debilitating and can have an adverse effect on the sufferer’s quality of life.
It may be that anxiety develops as the person feels they need to remain within close reach of a bathroom, or their social life suffers as they fear embarrassing symptoms whilst out with friends.
Living with IBS is often emotionally challenging and draining, which can lead to increased stress levels or feelings of depression.
Managing irritable bowel syndrome with CBT
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based approach that can help people who have physical health conditions, such as IBS, to better manage their emotional well-being. It’s natural to have concerns about the future or feel helpless or anxious about the negative impact that IBS can have on a person’s life.
CBT cannot change the diagnosis of an irritable bowel condition. The therapy is focused on identifying and challenging the negative and unhelpful thoughts that cause emotional distress related to the condition.
Once the problematic thought patterns are identified, the client and therapist can discuss techniques to manage their negative thoughts about their illness in a more adaptive and realistic way.
With help from a CBT professional, clients can learn to better cope with their condition or come to terms with a recent diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome. This will help the person to feel less anxious and stressed about their illness, which can also result in the physical symptoms improving, as stress can be a trigger for a flare-up of the condition.
Speak to our experienced therapists
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Interventions have successfully helped hundreds of clients understand the emotional intricacies of their long-term bowel condition.
The cognitive approach can greatly improve a person’s outlook on life and give them the confidence to deal with their illness and allow them to lead a more productive and fulfilled life away from anxiety and negative thoughts.
