Regarding the short-term relief of mental health and bowel problems, stress management may be advantageous for irritable bowel syndrome sufferers.

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to assess the impact of stress management on  mental health, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and usual symptoms of people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Electronic databases were explored for relevant literature searches. Using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network criteria, 2 investigators analyzed the papers independently and determined the risk of bias. A meta-analysis was carried out using homogenous trials with acceptable quality.

Ten relevant randomized trials with 587 participants and acceptable (n = 5) or low methodological quality (n = 5) were found after reviewing 6656 publications. After 1-2 months of the intervention (Hedges' g = -0.23, I2 = 86.1%), and following 3-12 months (Hedges' g = -0.77, I2 = 93.3%), the meta-analysis revealed no impact of stress management on the severity of IBS.

In one study, symptoms were reduced in the short term, while in another, symptoms were alleviated in the long term (at 6 months). Notably, 1 of the 2 studies revealed an enhancement in HRQoL after two months. In 1 of the 2 trials that evaluated anxiety and depression, these symptoms were reported to be lessened after three weeks.

Stress-management interventions may lead to short-term positive effects by relieving bowel symptoms and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in adults with IBS. Long-term benefits are not clear. Trials of good quality with >6 months follow-up are needed.