IBS and How You Can Take Control

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You’re in the middle of a big meeting. Everyone’s eyes are on the screen, your name is next on the agenda, and all you can think about is whether there’s a toilet nearby. Sound familiar? If you’re living with IBS, especially while trying to manage a busy professional life, you’re definitely not alone. Around 10–15% of people deal with IBS—and for many, it hits hardest at work when stress levels are already high.

The thing about IBS is, it’s not just about your stomach. It’s about the way your brain and gut talk to each other. They’re constantly chatting via what’s called the gut-brain axis. And when your brain gets stressed, your gut hears about it—loud and clear. That’s why you might feel cramps before a presentation, or get bloated the second your inbox fills up.

And here’s something not everyone realises: the more we think about our symptoms, the worse they can get. Honestly, just worrying about whether your stomach will act up during a call or on your commute can actually trigger the very thing you’re dreading. It’s like a loop—stress leads to symptoms, and then worrying about those symptoms adds more stress. There’s even research showing that people who are super aware of every little gut sensation often end up feeling worse overall. Your body starts to treat every stomach grumble like it’s a five-alarm fire.

That’s where gut-directed hypnotherapy can really help. It’s not about swinging a pocket watch in front of your eyes—it’s about calming that overactive mind-gut connection. The science behind it is solid. One study from the University Hospital of South Manchester found that 71% of people who tried gut-directed hypnotherapy saw real improvements in their IBS symptoms. And even better? Over 80% of them were still feeling better five years later.

The way it works is pretty simple. You get guided into a relaxed state—kind of like a deep meditation—and while you're there, your mind becomes more open to positive suggestions that help calm your digestive system. Think of it as rewiring the way your brain responds to gut signals. Most programmes run for about 6 to 12 weeks, and you only need around 20 to 30 minutes per session. Some people even get great results with just 15 minutes a day using an app.

Apps like Nerva are designed specifically for this. Clinical trials have shown that more than 70% of users noticed improvements in their IBS symptoms. It’s like having a therapist in your pocket, and you can do it whenever it suits you—before work, during a break, or to unwind at night.

And this isn’t just about easing symptoms. People also report better sleep, clearer thinking, and less anxiety. One study even found that work performance improved after hypnotherapy. So if your IBS has been messing with your ability to focus or get through the day without worrying about your gut, this could be a total game changer.

Let’s do some quick maths. Say you spend 15 minutes a day on this—that’s less than 2% of your time. For that tiny investment, you could end up with fewer flare-ups, fewer awkward dashes to the loo, and way more headspace to focus on the stuff that really matters.

If this is something you want to explore, it’s easy to get started. Here in the UK, gut-directed hypnotherapy isn’t typically available on the NHS, although some hospital-based GI clinics may offer it in limited cases. Most people access treatment privately, which gives you more choice and flexibility.

That’s where I can help. As a qualified hypnotherapist trained in solution-focused approaches, I offer online sessions tailored specifically to professionals dealing with IBS and stress-related digestive issues. You don’t need a referral, and we’ll work together to create a plan that fits your schedule—whether that’s early mornings, lunchtime, or after hours. It’s all about making it work for you.

I also offer a initial call to discuss how gut-directed hypnotherapy could work for you—no obligation, just a helpful starting point So if you’re tired of letting IBS call the shots, and you want something practical, evidence-based, and flexible, let’s talk.

Because here’s the truth: you’ve got enough on your plate already. You don’t need your gut adding more stress to the mix. If something as simple as a few minutes of guided calm can help you get through your workday without constantly thinking about your digestion, isn’t that worth a go?