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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common condition affecting the digestive system. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, urgency, or changes in bowel habits. Symptoms often fluctuate over time and may vary in severity from person to person.

 

Living with IBS can be physically uncomfortable and emotionally exhausting. Many people find that IBS affects not only their physical health, but also their confidence, social life, work, relationships, and overall quality of life

The impact of IBS

IBS can have a significant effect on daily functioning. You may find yourself:

  • Worrying about symptoms or flare-ups

  • Planning your day around access to toilets

  • Avoiding travel, social events, or eating out

  • Feeling anxious, embarrassed, or self-conscious

  • Becoming frustrated or exhausted by ongoing symptoms

 

Many people also notice a strong connection between stress and digestive symptoms. This does not mean that IBS is “all in the mind” — IBS is a genuine condition involving complex interactions between the gut and nervous system.

Understanding the gut-brain connection

Research has shown that the digestive system and brain are closely linked through what is often referred to as the gut-brain axis. Stress, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm can influence digestive functioning, while ongoing physical symptoms can understandably increase anxiety and hypervigilance about the body.

 

Over time, this cycle can lead to:

  • Increased focus on bodily sensations

  • Anticipatory anxiety about symptoms

  • Avoidance behaviours

  • Heightened stress responses

 

Therapy can help to reduce this cycle and improve coping and quality of life.

How common is IBS?

  • IBS affects approximately 10–20% of adults

  • It is one of the most common gastrointestinal conditions

  • Symptoms often begin in early adulthood, though IBS can occur at any age

  • Women are more commonly affected than men

(Recent research and NHS guidance, 2022–2024)

What treatment do we offer?

Support focuses on managing symptoms, reducing stress and anxiety linked to IBS, and improving day-to-day functioning.

 

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT has a strong evidence base for IBS and can help to:

  • Reduce anxiety related to symptoms

  • Address catastrophic thinking or fear about flare-ups

  • Reduce avoidance and safety behaviours

  • Improve coping and confidence in managing symptoms

 

Gut-directed CBT and mind-body approaches focus on:

  • Calming the nervous system

  • Reducing hypervigilance to bodily sensations

  • Improving the relationship between stress and digestive symptoms

 

Stress management and nervous system regulation may include:

  • Relaxation and breathing techniques

  • Mindfulness approaches

  • Identifying patterns of stress and overwhelm

  • Improving work-life balance and recovery time

 

Lifestyle and behavioural support may involve:

  • Building consistent routines around sleep, eating, and activity

  • Pacing and energy management

  • Reducing avoidance behaviours linked to fear of symptoms

 

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT can support:

  • Living more fully alongside ongoing symptoms

  • Reducing the struggle with unpredictability

  • Reconnecting with activities and values that matter to you

A compassionate note

Living with IBS can feel unpredictable, frustrating, and isolating at times — particularly when symptoms affect everyday activities or confidence. While IBS can be a long-term condition, support can help you feel more in control, reduce the impact symptoms have on your life, and improve your overall wellbeing.

Further guidance and support

You may find this trusted resource helpful:

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