Why some kids get stomachaches before school
By Julie Rawe
Expert reviewed by Roberto Olivardia, PhD
Quick tips when kids get morning stomachaches
- Quick tip 1Show empathy.
Show empathy.Tell kids you know the pain is real, and that you and the other caring adults in their lives can help solve whatever the problem is.
Some kids rarely get stomachaches. For others, it’s a common occurrence — especially on school days. They often wake up with pain that’s bad enough to make them want to stay home or not attend class.
What’s causing their frequent stomach problems? It might be something physical, like constipation or lactose intolerance. But stomachaches can also be caused by stress.
Doctors sometimes call this type of stomachache “psychosomatic” because it’s triggered by thoughts. While the cause isn’t physical, the pain is real. (Migraines are also often caused by stress.)
Stress doesn’t only cause pain — it can also affect our tolerance for pain. For example, a gas bubble might not bother us much when we’re happy and well-rested. But it might be very uncomfortable when we’re tired and stressed.
Frequent stomachaches or visits to the school nurse can sometimes be a sign that kids are struggling in school. The challenges may be academic or social.
No matter what the cause, starting a dialogue is a good first step to find out what’s going on.
Dive deeper
Signs that trouble at school is causing stress
How to talk with kids about stomachaches
Next steps
About the author
About the author
Julie Rawe is the special projects editor at Understood.
Reviewed by
Reviewed by
Roberto Olivardia, PhD is a clinical psychologist and lecturer in psychology at Harvard Medical School.
