Psychological Features in the Inflammatory Bowel Disease-Irritable Bowel Syndrome Overlap: Developing a Preliminary Understanding of Cognitive and Behavioral Factors.

The study findings provide preliminary evidence that suggests patients with IBD-IBS overlap display similar rates of psychological distress, catastrophic thinking, and avoidance behaviors as those with active IBD. Those with mild ongoing inflammation despite meeting a definition for clinical remission may have similar psychological needs compared to those with moderate-to-severely active IBD. Incorporating a mental health provider with training in psychogastroenterology can help a patient with IBD learn how to effectively with these cognitive and behavioral patterns.