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New Research Highlights the Critical Link Between Childhood Anxiety and Gastrointestinal Health

Replay Counseling & Consulting Shares Insights on the Importance of Early Identification and Integrated Care

Richmond, VA – Replay Counseling & Consulting is pleased to share research by Nikole R. Jiggetts, DBH, LCSW, RPT-S, examining the often-overlooked connection between childhood anxiety and gastrointestinal (GI) health. The doctoral paper, Comorbidity of Anxiety and Gastrointestinal Disease in Pediatric Patients, explores growing evidence that anxiety and chronic digestive symptoms frequently occur together and emphasizes the need for earlier identification, comprehensive assessment, and integrated behavioral healthcare.

Children who experience recurring stomachaches, abdominal pain, nausea, constipation, or other gastrointestinal concerns are often evaluated for physical causes. While medical assessment is essential, emerging research suggests that emotional well-being should also be considered as part of a comprehensive evaluation. Dr. Jiggetts’ research highlights the bidirectional relationship between the brain and the gut, demonstrating how chronic anxiety can contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms and how persistent GI conditions can, in turn, increase anxiety.

“Children communicate stress in many ways, and sometimes their bodies speak before they have the words,” said Dr. Jiggetts. “When we recognize the connection between emotional health and physical symptoms, we create opportunities for earlier intervention and better long-term outcomes.”

The new insights from my doctoral research encourages healthcare providers to adopt an integrated approach that includes both physical and behavioral health screenings when evaluating pediatric gastrointestinal concerns. By considering medical, psychological, family, school, and social factors together, providers can develop more comprehensive treatment plans that address the whole child rather than isolated symptoms.

The research also discusses the broader implications of untreated anxiety and GI disorders, including increased healthcare utilization, reduced quality of life, and higher long-term healthcare costs. Early identification and intervention may help prevent chronic health concerns that often continue into adulthood.

As a Doctor of Behavioral Health and Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Dr. Jiggetts is committed to advancing integrated behavioral healthcare by bridging the gap between mental and physical health. Her work reflects Replay Counseling & Consulting’s mission of promoting whole-person wellness through trauma-informed, evidence-based, and family-centered care.

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Nikole R. Jiggetts, DBH, LCSW, RPT-S
Owner & Behavioral Health Consultant
Replay Counseling & Consulting