I'm Doing the Best That I CanVersion en ligne Based on journal article of same name. par Luiza Barroso 1 Support 2 Controlling the Situation 3 Attitude 4 Relaxation Techniques 5 Distraction or Ignoring the Problem 6 Education or Knowledge All women expressed this network was crucial in their day-to-day functioning. "I call my mom all the time, and you know, she's a huge stress reliever" This strategy was particularly crucial in a relationship with a significant other. 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. "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." Being in control of their surroundings and potential 'triggers.' For example, being positive and not dwelling on their condition. "You have to have, obviously, a good attitude and obviously mind over matter." "Thinking, like, it's not a big deal..." "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." "He has these heat bags, and heat magic bags, I don't know you put them in the microwave and they heat up..." Techniques reported to help alleviate stress and consequently signs and symptoms. A commonly used technique; typically dependent on the severity of the adverse effects being experienced at a particular time. "...usually focusing on something helps..." "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." Women felt that this was helpful around the time of their diagnosis; however, after living with the condition, this was not typically used. "I haven't come across anything that ummm... that's actually helped me."