I have read everyone's comments about IBS but I have a somewhat different problem that is kind of related. I suffer from an irritable bladder and when I am suffering from anxiety I get insomnia, panic attacks and can go to the bathroom up to 20 times a day and get overcompulsive about it. I have tried Detrol for the overactive bladder but realize it is a mind-bladder not mind-gut problem. I am now on sleeping pills and an anti-depressant but do not like the side effects. I would love to know if anyone has had that problem and what has helped them. I have also sent for the Midwest Center tapes etc and am waiting for the information. I know God has a plan for me but nothing happens overnight. If you have had similar problems please email me back on what worked for you. I know we all will get over this in time and are not crazy. Ha,ha.

Sincerely,
Kran

Dear Kran,

This is more common than you might imagine. I get calls about it at least three times a month. Please be patient with your learning time and changing mind.

Try delaying tactics - start with small goals like: delay for 5 min. walk around, sit down, read - -

Sorry for the brevity-it's late in Ohio...I'll be in the office after 9a.m. est. Best to you, Carolyn

Carolyn:

I was thrilled to receive your response. It is always nice to know that you are not the only one out there with this symptom. Would love to know where I could get more information on irritable bladder problems related to anxiety and if there is anyone I can talk to about it who has a similar problem and how they addressed / handled it. I have just received my materials to start the self help program and am very excited. Thanks. I look forward to your response.

Hi Kran,

I was just looking over the Forum and noticed your post. I too have irritable bladder problems. I sometimes get totally obsessed with having to use the bathrooom. I am on an antidepressant and week 10 of the program it is an awsome program you will love. I haven't come to any conclutions about the bladder problems except to try to make light of them and not worry about them. They come and go and when I don't stess out about it and get caught up in a circular pattern of worrying that it must be something serious it seems to pass that much quicker. I also find that making sure I drink plenty of water seems to help. I know this seems weird considering that might make you go more, but it does seem to help. The old 6-8 glasses of water a day is very theraputic. Plus eliminating caffine also helped me. My doctor also told me spicy foods can be irritating. It also seems to wanna flare up with the irritable bowel problems. Keep your chin up!!

Mary

[This message has been edited by jmjvsjones (edited 08-03-2001).]