Stomach aches and pains every day, discomfort like having a full stomach, and difficulty going to the toilet... Anyone who suffers from constipation knows how difficult it is to deal with this problem. But many people think that this is just a physical inconvenience. In fact, it also brings a lot of stress and anxiety to our minds, doesn't it? Today, let's talk about the relationship between this persistent constipation and our mental health .
What is this persistent constipation?
Simply put, if you need to go to the toilet less than three times a week, and when you do, your stools are very dry, hard, and difficult to pass, we call this chronic constipation . Sometimes, no cause can be found. It is medically known as ``Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC)``. This is a very common condition, especially among women.
What is the connection between constipation and our emotions?
Imagine, there's a huge connection between our brain and our gut, like a telephone line. If there's a problem in one, the other will definitely feel it. This connection works both ways.
- Stress increases constipation: When you are stressed or anxious, your body's muscles tighten. This also happens to the muscles in your intestines. This can disrupt the normal functioning of your intestines and make constipation worse. Also, when we are stressed, our brain is on high alert. So even a small discomfort in our stomach starts to feel much worse.
- Constipation causes stress: Constantly feeling unwell, not knowing when it will be okay, and being afraid to be in public can all put a lot of pressure on your mind. It's like a vicious cycle. Stress causes constipation, and constipation causes stress.
Scientists have discovered something else. There is a chemical called ' Serotonin ' that is produced in our bodies. Many people think that this is only something that controls our happiness and mood. But in fact, most of this serotonin is produced in our intestines. And it also directly affects the functioning of the intestines. So, imbalances in this chemical can disrupt our mood as well as the bowel movement process.
How does this situation affect our lives?
This physical condition called chronic constipation can gradually affect almost every aspect of our lives.
- Constant worry and stress:"Will I be able to go to the bathroom today?", "Will I get a stomachache?", and so on, can leave you feeling uneasy all day long.
- Reduced social interaction: Imagine you receive an invitation to a friend's wedding or a family outing. But you avoid the trip because of your stomach ache and the fear of "what if I get in trouble?" Over time, this can even lead to social isolation.
- Sleep disturbance: Stomach discomfort at night can make it difficult to sleep properly. When you don't get enough sleep, you feel very tired the next day and don't feel refreshed.
- Impact on sex life: Stomach pain , discomfort, and stress can even reduce interest in sex .
- All-day fatigue: When physical discomfort and mental stress combine, you can feel so physically and mentally exhausted that you can't get anything done properly throughout the day.
This is not just your problem. Many people who suffer from this condition face these psychological difficulties. So don't think that you are alone.
So what do we do to control this stress?
Fortunately, there are some simple things we can do to reduce our stress levels, which can indirectly help with your constipation.
| What can be done (The Tip) | What does it do? (How it Helps) |
|---|---|
| Physical activity | Do some exercise that you enjoy, such as walking, swimming, or cycling. Exercise releases hormones that reduce stress in the body. It also stimulates bowel movements and helps relieve constipation. |
| Chat with friends. | Don't keep your problems bottled up inside. Talk to a trusted friend or family member about it. Sharing your burdens with someone else can be a great relief. |
| Make time for what brings you joy. | Set aside a little time each day to do something you enjoy, such as gardening, painting, or listening to music. Hobbies like these can reduce stress and bring new meaning to life. |
| Mindfulness techniques | Meditation and yoga can help reduce the amount of stress you feel. Spend a few minutes a day sitting in a quiet place and focusing on your breathing. It may be difficult to focus on one thing, but don't worry about it. Slowly return your attention to your breathing. |
When is it best to seek medical advice?
If your stress and anxiety do not decrease even after making the aforementioned lifestyle changes, or if it is so bothersome that you are unable to perform even daily tasks properly, do not ignore it.
Definitely see your doctor and talk about this.
Your doctor will probably ask you a few questions about your mood, feelings of sadness, and anxiety. It's important to answer them honestly. You may have a mental health condition that needs treatment, such as anxiety or depression . If so, your doctor can refer you to a therapist who can help you.
It's important to take care of our minds as well as our bodies. Seeking medical advice is not a sign of weakness, it's something that makes you strong and self-reliant.
Take-Home Message
- Chronic constipation is not just a physical problem; it also severely affects our mental health.
- Stress can increase constipation, and constipation can increase stress. It's like a vicious cycle.
- Simple things like exercising, doing something that makes you happy, and talking to friends can provide great relief from this stress.
- If you still don't feel better after doing these things, don't suffer alone and definitely talk to your doctor. It's very important to seek proper treatment.
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