How Do I Deal With My Emotions?
Teens with functional abdominal pain can have many emotions- anxiety, frustration, sadness and fear. Because the pain lasts for months, teens can begin to dread each day, becoming hopeless that the pain can be managed. Being aware of your mental health and emotional well-being is important.
POSITIVE COPING MECHANISMS
- Journaling
- Listening to music
- Meditation
- Religious practices like praying
- Exercise
Stress can make functional abdominal pain worse. Avoiding all stress is impossible so learning effective, positive coping mechanisms will help. Your doctor can refer you to a mental health clinician if you need additional strategies coping with your functional abdominal pain or Disorder of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBI).
