Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is relatively common these days, but that makes it no less painful, uncomfortable, embarrassing or awkward. IBS symptoms can include abdominal cramps, an alteration in bowel habits, constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, bladder problems, an urgent need to go to the toilet – the list goes on, every sufferer is different and these symptoms can change with each bout or flare up.
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The NHS.uk website cites IBS as being: "thought to affect up to one in five people at some point in their life, and it usually first develops when a person is between 20 and 30 years of age. Around twice as many women are affected as men. The condition is often lifelong, although it may improve over several years."
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Annoyingly, researchers are not completely convinced what causes IBS, although certain foods and medication are thought to act as triggers and it is almost certainly exacerbated by stress and anxiety. One theory is that the colon, being particularly hypersensitive, can become irritated and go into spasm, causing the symptoms within the gut. Your doctor or medical professional will be able to diagnose IBS and give you some diet and lifestyle tips, which should help with this.
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However, it is also well-known that, because of the physical problems displayed by Irritable Bowel Syndrome sufferers, it can also lead to emotional symptoms like anxiety and depression. This is completely understandable, as IBS can begin to take over and dictate your entire life. But it's how we cope with those feelings that is important. If IBS makes you stressed, but stress makes IBS worse, you can easily find yourself in the grip a vicious circle. And that's where Solution Focused Hypnotherapy can be of great help.
How can hypnotherapy help with IBS?
We use a combination of psychotherapeutic and hypnotic techniques to help make positive changes in your life*. By changing the way you deal with everyday stresses and worries, it's possible to alter that cycle of anxiety and put coping mechanisms into place. And, although it may not completely cure or get rid of the symptoms of IBS, it can help you feel more positive, relaxed and forward-focused and as such not dwelling on the negatives which bring you down and stress you out.
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Here at See Change Hypnotherapy, we understand that suffering from such an illness can be distressing and embarrassing. But we're confident that we can help you lower those stress levels by using well-researched techniques to get you back to being your best. For more information on how to book a free initial consultation with our friendly therapist, please click here or email us now at tamara@seechangehypnotherapy.com.
*Hypnotherapy is an effective method of treatment, however success is not guaranteed and full client commitment is important. For example, listening to our accompanying therapeutic audio tracks between sessions is a vital element in the process and participation is required. This will be fully explained in the initial consultation. Results may vary from person to person.