Abstract
Although often difficult to discuss with clients, gastrointestinal (GI) issues affect an estimated 60 to 70 million Americans (American Gastroenterological Association, 2022). Yet only about 25% of those experiencing these conditions receive treatment. This is troubling because GI issues frequently co-occur with clinically significant consequences for physical health, psychological well-being, daily functioning, and overall quality of life. Designed for behavioral health and healthcare professionals, this brief article introduces the field of psychogastroenterology, with emphasis on symptoms, stigma, diagnosis, and treatment. Key topics include the gut-brain axis, common digestive health conditions, and the mental health implications associated with gastrointestinal disorders.
Recommended Citation
Brown, Jerrod Ph.D., M.A., M.S., M.S., M.S., M.S., M.S.; Schimp, Jeremiah B. PhD, MA, LPCC; Skehan, Leanne DCN, MSACN, MPH, MBA, CNS, CHES; Mydra, Shelley DMFT, LMFT; Ward, Jonathan DC, PhD(c), MS, DIBCN; and Flaten, Tiffany CNS, LDN
(2026)
"Psychogastroenterology: An Introduction for Behavioral Health and Healthcare Professionals,"
Nutritional Neurocriminology Today: Vol. 1, Article 4.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.csp.edu/nutritional_neurocriminology_today/vol1/iss1/4
Included in
Clinical Psychology Commons, Gastroenterology Commons, Health Psychology Commons, Mental Disorders Commons, Psychiatric and Mental Health Commons, Somatic Psychology Commons