Chronic Digestive Problems
Although anxiety is often seen as a psychological issue, more often than not it is psychosomatic in that it can influence both your body and mind. One common physiological symptom of anxiety is chronic indigestion. Irritable Bowel syndrome (IBS), in Winston’s words is “basically an anxiety in the digestive tract.” IBS presents as issues with digestion including, but not limited to, stomachaches, cramping, bloating, gas, and constipation.
Although there is not always an association between IBS and anxiety (you can have one without the other) they often co-occur since your gut can be greatly influenced by psychological stress. If you have ever had to run to the bathroom before a big performance review you might understand what we are talking about. One main issue is that IBS and anxiety have a cyclical relationship: anxiety can lead to IBS and having IBS can lead to anxiety. For example, many individuals who have IBS develop anxiety with regards to not being able to make it to the bathroom in time or not being able to control their gassiness.
