1. INTRODUCTION [AND RESEARCH QUESTION(S) AND/OR RESEARCH HYPOTHESIS(ES)]

Give a brief description of the problem to be investigated, outlining the background to the problem including the key background sources and previous research within the subject area, and end this section by stating clearly the research question(s) and/or research hypothesis(es). If you propose a complex model involving several variables you should insert a path diagram of the model as a single figure in JPEG format (total number of words: Min 500 words, Max 1000 words, including listed references; a figure counts as 0 words; number of listed references: Min 3, Max 5).

Description of the issue
Stress can affect people’s living in a fast-paced city like Singapore in several ways due to the demands and challenges associated with urban life. As such, many people experience different symptoms of stress, affecting daily life functioning.

This study aims to look at the impact of stress on symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). According to ROME III criteria, IBS can present as one of three predominant subtypes: 1) IBS with constipation, 2) IBS with diarrhea, and 3) mixed IBS. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, straining, myalgias, urgency, bloating and feelings of serious illness (World Journal of Gastroenterology, 2014). These symptoms can be distracting and uncomfortable, making it challenging to maintain a normal work routine. In the long run, it can trigger negative outcome such as anxiety, panic attack, lack of motivation to pursue the interest in life <Include in-text citation here>. Persistent stress from IBS can lead to constant fatigue. Individuals may find it challenging to master the energy needed to complete tasks and meet deadlines.