Psychotherapy for IBS

Overview
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is frequently associated with psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and depression. Emotional distress can cause worsening of symptoms in many people with IBS. Psychotherapy, also known simply as therapy, can be valuable in treating IBS.

What does it involve?
Therapy sessions involve interacting with a trained and licensed mental health professional. Therapy can be short-term, involving a few sessions, or long-term, lasting over months or years.

Therapy can be one-on-one with a therapist, or involve a group (group therapy), a relationship partner (couples therapy), or family (family therapy). Therapy involving others can add an element of social support.

There are many forms of psychotherapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and correcting ways of thinking that lead to depression. Interpersonal therapy (IPT) focuses on improving communication and behavior with family and friends. Some therapists specialize in one type of therapy, while others utilize a combination of psychotherapeutic approaches.

Intended Outcomes
The goal of psychotherapy is to reduce stress and treat the psychological factors related to IBS. Therapy can help depressed people deal with grief or losses, find better ways to handle stress or relationship conflicts, and resolve difficulties surrounding life transitions.

Results
Psychotherapy has been proven effective in reducing IBS symptoms in several scientific studies.

Constraints
Symptoms of IBS may make it difficult to make and keep therapy appointments.

While some health insurance plans cover therapy, coverage may be limited. Therapy can be expensive if you are paying privately.

Depending on where you live, it may be difficult to travel to therapy appointments.

For more details about this treatment, visit:
Psychological Treatments – About IBS: http://www.aboutibs.org/psychological-treatment...

Short-term and Long-term Efficacy of Psychological Therapies for Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis – Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology: http://www.cghjournal.org/article/S1542-3565(15...