Stress or diarrhea

[Daphne do]

I have really bad stress and when I don't feel well it gets worse I also have lupus which freaks me out so I could take something that would calm my stress but it might make the diarrhea wosre which is wosre to have the stress or the diarrhea? Both make me feel like I'm dieing and make me stress out more please help

[cyclinglady]

I am so sorry.    You need a hug!  

I am assuming you have talked with your doctor.  Taking a medication to help you through this stressful time may be helpful.  The medication just needs to be gluten free and we can help you navigate that (as can your doctor or pharmacist).  

Otherwise, I can offer some tips that help me.  First, I make darn sure that I am really gluten free.  Then I focus on myself.  I take runs or walks.  Ennis in Texas walks a lot.  Physical exercise outside can really help.    My daughter likes to knit.  It helps her get through stressful situations.  Just something repetitive and easy.  

This is a way to find happiness:

1.  Contribute — give back to the community.  Volunteer.  Even something simple like my neighbor who pulls weeds on a tiny city owned parkway.  

2.  Connection — get people into your life.  A celiac group, a hobby group, church, this forum....whatever.

3.  Cope — We talked about this.   

4.  Cook. Nothing like cooking to give you a sense of satisfaction, plus, you will reap the benefits of nourishing foods.  Ennis is a fantastic cook working around all his intolerances, etc.  KarenG is always trying out new recipes too.  

You have celiac disease and lupus.  Not much you can do to change that, but finding coping strategies will help you immensely.  You can find happiness and maybe lose some of that stress.  Take one day at at time.  I am a fan of checklists!  I should do the tasks that are urgent, but often I tackle easy jobs.  It can make starting easier.  

Hugs!  

[Daphne do]

Thank you I will try what you said I appreciate your help❤️

[Ennis-TX]

I found magnesium supplements and CBD helps with stress, depression, and anxiety...I take some other things that are supposed to help like a bit of dark unsweetened chocolate in the morning. I honestly feel panic attacks if I lower my magnesium and get suicidal thoughts after 2-3 days of lowered Hemp or CBD intake.
I used to just get a book or something on my kindle and pace while reading as sitting still made me feel worse (like I needed to fight something or go run). I now days found peace by buying a under desk elliptical to pedal on while on the computer, and a stationary bike to put in front of the couch.
Cooking is very rewarding as cyclinglady said...I always look forward to morning. or afternoon cooking and prep (I always do some kind of baked good, a meal prep, and cook for myself and others)