Can Anxiety Cause Diarrhea? Physical Symptoms Of Mental Disorders Explored
Key Takeaways Anxiety can directly cause diarrhea through the gut-brain axis, disrupting normal digestive function and triggering stress responses that affect bowel movements The fight-or-flight response releases cortisol and adrenaline , which accelerate gut motility and reduce blood flow to the digestive system Evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness effectively address both anxiety and its digestive symptoms Specific medications and probiotics can minimize gastrointestinal side effects while treating underlying anxiety disorders Professional treatment becomes essential when symptoms persist or significantly impact daily functioning The connection between mental health and digestive wellness runs deeper than many realize. When anxiety strikes, the body's response extends far beyond racing thoughts or a pounding heart—it can trigger immediate and uncomfortable digestive symptoms that leave individuals searching for answers. The Gut-Brain Con...