TeenHealthFX - Answers - Diarrhea And Stomach Aches When Nervous

Worries, Fears and Anxiety Disorders / Question
Published: April 1, 2009

Dear TeenHealthFX,

I seem to always get I guess nervous before everything. i wake up and if i dont go to the bathroom soon i get diarhea and stomach aches. im going away and i feel sick and its 1 1/2 weeks before i go. i get diarhea, upset stomach, nausea, lack of concentration, the feeling of something in my throat. I thought maybe i had anxiety. is there anything i can do before i go away for 9 days? its been happening as long as i can remember, and im 17 now. it could be hanging w/ friends, concert, a trip to the beach or amusement park, field trip, interview, around someone i like. please help?

Signed: Diarrhea And Stomach Aches When Nervous

Dear Diarrhea And Stomach Aches When Nervous,

TeenHealthFX thinks that it is important that you see a medical health professional and a mental health professional as soon as possible. Your doctor can determine whether or not there is any underlying medical condition that requires treatment, such as irritable bowel syndrome. And a therapist can determine whether or not you are dealing with some kind of anxiety disorder and can work with you on developing an effective treatment plan in the event that you are. This might include individual therapy, family therapy, medication management, specific treatment options such as biofeedback, or some combination of the four.

If it’s possible for you to see your doctor and meet with a therapist for a consultation sometime in the next nine days, that would be ideal. It might help your anxiety to know that you have started treatment and are on your way to dealing with this situation – and it will obviously help you in the long-run to meet with medical and mental health professionals about this situation.

For now, consider the following:

Think about whether there are any particular foods that bother you more than others. Maybe even start a food journal of what you eat and your physical reaction to that food. That way you could figure out some foods to avoid for now. Some foods that can trigger stomach upsets or diarrhea in people can include acidic foods (like tomato sauce and orange juice) and/or dairy products. Some people also have negative reactions to very fatty, rich, or spicy foods.

Start exercising regularly if you do not do so already. Exercise (especially workouts that get the heart rate up) can help to reduce stress and anxiety, boost your mood, and keep the digestive system in check.

Think about some kind of relaxation exercises you can do daily, as well as in the moments when you find yourself getting anxious. You can do some kind of meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, yoga, deep breathing, or guided imagery.

If you don't have a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-6475 for an appointment or contact your local teen health center. You can also contact your insurance company for a list of in-network providers.

If you live in northern New Jersey and need help finding a therapist you can call the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 973-247-1400. Outside of this area you can log onto the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website for referrals in your area. You can also contact your insurance company to get a list of in-network mental health providers or check with your school social worker or psychologist to get a list of referrals in your area.

Signed: TeenHealthFX