Dr. Srini Pillay states in her article, “Gluten-Free Diets and Anxiety,” that one percent of the people living in the United States and the United Kingdom are diagnosed with celiac disease. The doctor indicated that people diagnosed with celiac disease have to refrain from ingesting gluten. The doctor says that it is common knowledge that fatigue and chronic diarrhea is associated with people diagnosed with celiac disease, but many do not realize there are also psychological issues connected with celiac disease.
Dr. Pillay goes on to say that people who are on a gluten-free diet must watch what they eat when they are dining out in a restaurant and when they are invited to social functions. This may cause the person to have feelings of embarrassment for not being able to eat what others eat. Most commonly, these people may feel anxiety accompanied with depression. These feelings may be seen more often in female patients with celiac disease. The patients may already be experiencing anxiety about diarrhea and how they feel about themselves. They may also experience …show more content…
The doctor suggests mind-based interventions for celiac disease patients who suffer from anxiety.
Dr. Pillay recommends three different interventions. The first intervention is for the person eating gluten-free food to remind themselves that they have a new lifestyle and are going to be happier and healthier. The doctor also tells the patient if they are invited to a social function, they could talk to the host about their gluten-free diet and suggest foods to be served or bring gluten-free foods that they can eat so they will not feel left out.
The second intervention deals with keeping a diary. The doctor tells the patient that he/she could record positive thoughts and write down what they are thankful for. This diary should be kept for at least a few