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1. Support
2. Controlling the Situation
3. Attitude
4. Relaxation Techniques
5. Distraction or Ignoring the Problem
6. Education or Knowledge

"I call my mom all the time, and you know, she's a huge stress reliever"

Women felt that this was helpful around the time of their diagnosis; however, after living with the condition, this was not typically used.

A commonly used technique; typically dependent on the severity of the adverse effects being experienced at a particular time.

"You have to have, obviously, a good attitude and obviously mind over matter."

"I've really had to adopt, like, sitting back and just taking time for myself, or not working eight hours a day if I don't need to."

"If I distracted myself, like with my friends or whatnot, then, obviously, try and get my mind off things, and I hopefully wouldn't have to go as much then."

For example, being positive and not dwelling on their condition.

This strategy was particularly crucial in a relationship with a significant other.

"I always think of, 'oh where's the closest washroom, where's this, where's that?' And I'd have to keep a mental map in my head."

Techniques reported to help alleviate stress and consequently signs and symptoms.

Lack of this created undue stress in the form of guilt or feeling alone in their battle with their GI disorders.

At times, they felt it would be best to stay home rather than venture outside, to control extraneous factors.

"He has these heat bags, and heat magic bags, I don't know you put them in the microwave and they heat up..."

"Thinking, like, it's not a big deal..."

Being in control of their surroundings and potential 'triggers.'

"I haven't come across anything that ummm... that's actually helped me."

"...usually focusing on something helps..."

All women expressed this network was crucial in their day-to-day functioning.