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Irritable bowel syndrome and mental health comorbidity — approach to multidisciplinary management
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) impacts a significant portion of the global population, ranging from 5% to 10%. A substantial proportion of individuals with IBS also contend with anxiety or depression, which greatly influences their healthcare utilization and long-term well-being. While both gastrointestinal and psychological symptoms contribute to the burden experienced by individuals with IBS, psychological comorbidity appears to exert a more pronounced effect on overall quality of life. The gold standard approach involves integrated care that addresses gastrointestinal symptoms through nutrition and brain-gut behavior therapies. However, determining the optimal treatment strategy for individuals with IBS and concurrent psychological conditions remains ambiguous. Given the rising pervasiveness of mental health issues, it is imperative to discuss the obstacles associated with implementing therapy for individuals with IBS and comorbid anxiety or depression. In this review by Staudacher et al. (2023), leveraging their expertise in gastroenterology, nutrition science, and psychology, the authors underscore the common challenges encountered in managing patients with IBS and coexisting anxiety and depression. Additionally, the authors offer recommendations for tailoring clinical assessment and treatment, including best practice suggestions encompassing dietary and behavioral interventions that can be implemented by both specialists and clinicians operating outside an integrated care framework. [NPID: Irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety, depression, integrated care, gastrointestinal symptoms, psychological comorbidity, clinical assessment]
Year: 2023
