Hi Tom -We need to talk! I am down that same path, and it has taken me forever to figure it out. I have GAD, and am also capable of having full-blown panic attacks. I have finally come to the realization that if I could get a handle on the damn anxiety, my IBS would be a lot better. I've also learned that lots of people have GAD that does not involve running to the john, so people like us definitely have an irritable bowel, its not in our heads, but my take on it is that my malfunctioning brain chemistry does indeed set off my gut. I just got back from a trip where, on the second night, true to form, we had dinner, were supposed to be winding down from a day at the zoo, when BAM - panic attack , cramping, and a run for the john in that order and in a 5 minute time span. Unfortunately, since I developed IBS several years ago, I've had to deal with the anxiety of leaving the house, fearing an attack will hit. Psychotherapy helped me deal with the panic attacks, but I believe its harder for us because as the mantra goes, "this is only a panic attack - it may feel unpleasant but nothing bad will really happen" doesn't really fit for us with the IBS part cuz we could wind up trapped in a john for 45 minutes. SO.... where I'm at now is coming to the realization that I need help keeping anxiety down so my bowel stays happy and mellow, and so the worst case scenario full-blown panic never happens. I've progressed so I'm basically OK on a day to day basis - for me now its trips/family outings/camping. I'm tired of this anxiety/IBS putting such a damper on what are supposed to be fun times with my family! Went to a gastro a couple months ago who confirmed IBS and suggested Paxil (similar to prozac). I got on an anxiety disorder website and this seems to be the drug of choice for GAD. Some people had good reports, some bad, all said they had to ride out some unpleasant side effects first few weeks. This may or may not be a good choice, but right now I'm thinking of relying on taking Xanax on trips BEFORE any anxiety happens (I dislike the thought of taking meds and always think I can tough it out, then an attack sneaks up on me). I plan on talking to my general practioner about this, hoping for a pep talk on what a good strategy this is and no, I won't get addicted. I'm shying away from the Paxil for now because I feel I'm under control most of the time, and, being a teacher, I worry about the side effects interfering with my job. If I do decide to give Paxil a try this summer, I've thought I'd rather do it under the joint supervision of my GP and a psychiatrist who treats GAD/panic disorders, rather than a gastroenterologist, who is more gut than brain oriented.I ordered a bunch of information from the following organization and found it really helped me, more than any doctors visit, to understand this IBS thing and how it can be associated with anxiety in some cases.International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD)phone: 888-964-2001www.iffgd.orgTwo anxiety books I like, although I find it frustrating that they never address the possibility of IBS involvement, are:The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook; BourneThe Anxiety Cure; Robert L. DupontBest of luck - please keep in touch - I am very interested in what your doctor's advice is as well as in what you decide to do. I really feel understanding what is happening is half the battle - it makes me feel so much more powerful and optimistic that I can beat this thing when I have some understanding of why it is happening and when I know I'm not alone! Deb