Your Gut Has Something to Say - and Your Brain is Paying Attention!
- Christine Carcoux
- Mar 4
- 2 min read
Have you ever felt “butterflies” before a big event? Or had a “gut-reaction"? These aren’t just popular expressions—they’re evidence of the strong connection between your brain and gut, known as the gut-brain axis.
What is the Gut-Brain Axis?
Your gut and brain are constantly chatting through a network of nerves, chemicals, and gut bacteria. The star attraction in this connection is the vagus nerve, a superhighway that carries messages between your brain and digestive system. Then there’s your gut microbiome—trillions of bacteria living in your intestines that play a key role in digestion, mood regulation, and even immune function. Some might even call our gut our "second brain."
Your gut makes neurotransmitters (chemical messengers), including serotonin, which helps in the regulation of mood and digestion. In fact, about 90% of serotonin is produced in the gut! So when your digestion isn't quite right, it can really affect your mood. Likewise, when you’re stressed, anxious, or worried, it can seriously impact your gut function. It really is a two way street!
How Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Can Help Your Gut
You might be thinking, “Really?! Therapy for stomach issues?” Absolutely! Because your gut and brain are so closely interconnected, addressing stress, anxiety, and emotional triggers can really help ease digestive distress.
Here’s how CBT and ACT can help:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Breaking the Anxiety-Gut Cycle
Many GI symptoms create anxiety, which then worsens symptoms. Your gut issues and your worries get caught up in a vicious cycle.
CBT helps reframe unhelpful thoughts about your symptoms, so your brain learns to stop sending distress signals to your gut.
You’ll learn practical skills to manage fears of flare-ups and regain control over how you respond to discomfort.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – Making Peace with Your Gut
Instead of fighting those pesky symptoms, ACT invites you to embrace the discomfort and not let it take the driver's seat in your life!
Get ready to explore mindfulness – your secret weapon against stress-induced tummy troubles!
ACT helps you reconnect with what really matters, so you can live life on your terms, not your gut's whims!
Ready to Feel Better?
If your gut has been calling for help, maybe now is the time to listen! Therapy using CBT and ACT can help you break free from the stress-symptom cycle and feel more in control. If you're ready to explore how therapy can help ease your digestive struggles, I’d love to work with you. Let’s get your brain and belly back on the same page!
Please feel free to connect for a free 15 minute phone consultation, or click the Book Now button if you are ready to dive in!
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