The recently announced guide covers the physical symptoms of anxiety disorders and how they can cause gastrointestinal issues, particularly diarrhea. In the guide, A Mission for Michael (AMFM) explores how natural mechanisms, especially the gut-brain axis, may be impacted by anxiety, along with coping strategies that can help individuals manage both digestive and mental health symptoms.

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) affects roughly 6.8 million Americans, making it one of the most common mental disorders in the country. As a result, anxiety-related digestive issues are a significant public health concern; studies show that roughly 60% of individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) meet the criteria for an anxiety disorder, while a smaller proportion may have major depressive disorders and other mental illnesses.

Anxiety disorders can impact the digestive function via the gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication system between the central nervous system and the GI tract. Specifically, anxiety activates the body’s fight-or-flight response, stimulating the release of the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones increase gut permeability, alter motility, and prompt intestinal cells to secrete excess fluid; fluctuating hormone levels may also accelerate the movement of food through the gut, preventing adequate water absorption in the colon and resulting in loose stools, which leads to diarrhea.

Because of the link between anxiety and digestive issues, AMFM notes that properly managing anxiety can reduce the severity of gastrointestinal symptoms. One strategy is practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation, which can temper the body’s physiological response to stress. Individuals can also consider incorporating high-fiber foods into their diet and decreasing their intake of caffeine or alcohol to regulate bowel movements and reduce irritation of the GI tract.

If anxiety symptoms and diarrhea persist, AMFM’s guide says that readers should consider seeking professional help. Evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) are effective at reducing anxiety, which in turn will lead to a reduction in any physical symptoms associated with the disorder.

Interested parties can learn more by visiting https://amfmtreatment.com/

A Mission for Michael (AMFM)

30310 Rancho Viejo Rd.
San Juan Capistrano
California
92675
United States

Information contained on this page is provided by an independent third-party content provider. XPRMedia and this Site make no warranties or representations in connection therewith. If you are affiliated with this page and would like it removed please contact [email protected]