Why Do People Get 'The Runs' When They're Nervous?

Imagine your brain is like a traffic cop, and when you're nervous, it gives the wrong signals to your stomach. Your brain tells your stomach to speed up, so food moves through faster, and before you know it, you're running for the bathroom. It's like pressing the 'fast forward' button on digestion!

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Examples

You're about to give a big speech, your stomach feels like it's doing cartwheels, and you run out of the room before you even say hello.
Your kid is about to go on stage for their first dance recital, and before the music starts, they're already in the bathroom.
You get nervous while waiting for an exam result, and suddenly your stomach has a mind of its own.

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Categories: Psychology · gut feeling· stress response· nervous system· physiological reaction· mental health