Episode 37: The Mental Load of IBS (with guest Megan Mountcastle, LICSW)

If you live with IBS, you already know it's not "just" a stomach issue. It's the mental math of always knowing where the bathroom is, the trips you don't book, and the memories you miss out on.In this episode, pelvic floor physical therapist Dr. Alex DiGrado and relationship/sex therapist Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy sit down with Megan Mountcastle, a licensed social worker who specializes in the gut-brain connection, to talk about how IBS touches so many parts of everyday life, and what you can control.Megan walks us through the "brain gut loop," explains why anxiety can act like a "cult leader," and why the goal of treatment isn't perfect symptom control. This is a conversation about learning to live a full life again, even when your gut doesn't always cooperate.What you’ll learn:How to acknowledge a symptom without letting it take over (also see Episode 22: “It’s Not Just a Bad Period” — A PT’s Personal Endometriosis Journey (with special guest Dr. Alyssa Demeule)Why people go so long without a formal diagnosisThe surprising link between childhood trauma and gut issues later in lifeHow a simple device helped a patient feel confident enough to travel the world againTune in if you've ever thought:"I canceled the trip because I just couldn't risk it.""I've researched everything and know my triggers, so why can't I get this under control?"“Am I the only one dealing with this?”“How do I get my life back and do all the things I want to do?”Helpful resources:Megan Mountcastle, LCSW — individual therapy (licensed in MA and CT), the Calm Gut, Calm Mind program, webinars, and provider consultation. Email [email protected] with questions or to schedule a free consultation call.Find a pelvic floor PT near you: pelvicrehab.com or Pelvic Global DirectoryParents in Love: A Guide to Great Sex After Kids by Dr. Rebecca Howard EudyConnect with us:Dr. Rebecca Howard EudyWebsite: rebeccaeudy.comInstagram: @rebeccahowardeudyNewsletter: Parents in Love SubstackDr. Alexandra DiGradoWebsite: bostonpelvicpt.comInstagram: @bostonpelvicptNewsletter: Under the HoodUnder the Hood PodcastInstagram: @underthehooddocsWebsite: underthehoodpod.com