What psychological factors affect IBS?
Major life stressors such as divorce, job loss, or school exams. History of trauma. Not having social support. Unproductive ways of thinking or acting. A vicious cycle you can learn to break Once you understand why irritable bowel syndrome occurs, you can begin to do something about it. For example, it is important to recognize that there is a distinct cycle of events that takes place during a bout of IBS. First, the attack may be triggered by anxiety, tension, and emotional stress. This causes pain and diarrhea or constipation. In turn, these symptoms produce even more anxiety and the cycle begins all over again.