subject: Do You Suffer From Paruresis? [print this page] Do You Suffer From Paruresis? Do You Suffer From Paruresis?
Paruresis, also known as shy bladder or bashful bladder is a condition where sufferers have difficulty urinating in public, using public restrooms, or urinating when they fear others might be able to hear them. This is a serious issue that has interfered with the lives of many.
Often paruresis starts out of nowhere. Perhaps a patient was unable to urinate in front of a doctor or nurse as part of a medical examination, the patient sees this as a catastrophe and worries about what might happen the next time they're in a public place. The next time this person enters a public restroom he or she recalls the situation in the doctor's office, anxiety builds; and again, the patient is unable to release urine. Before long, the fear has manifested into a full-blown phobia.
Shy bladder is a psychological disorder as opposed to a physiological or medical condition. Those who suffer are often quite bashful and fearful of criticism. Therefore, one of the first steps to recovery involves changing the perspective of the patient from a performance issue to the realization that this is a normal and necessary bodily function. Further, the patient must realize that there is no such thing as a perfect pee. There is no rating system on the force, speed or how much noise one makes; and it has no reflection on an individual's worth.
Although all paruresis patients are different, many report the same symptoms. No matter how badly you have to go to the bathroom, the fear of performance is always there. Many patients report being unable to use public restrooms, an inability to urinate at a friend's house, and even an inability to urinate in their own home while others are in the home.
If this sounds like symptoms you're experiencing, I know you want to correct the disorder as quickly as you can. The first thing you should do is consult your medical professional and make sure the issues you're having are not medical issues. If in fact it is paruresis, there are several ways to begin recovery. No matter the cause, it is possible to overcome your fears of urinating in public.
