What is Paruresis?
Over 17 million people suffer from the social anxiety disorder called paruresis (par-YOU-ree-sis), which is Latin for abnormal bladder. The term and even classification that this is a true disorder may be new to you, but you probably have heard of and even know people in this same situation, referred to as pee shy or bashful bladder. You may even be one of them. People who have paruresis find it difficult or even impossible to urinate in the presence of others in public restrooms, and even in their own homes. This could be for several reasons. First, some people have difficulty urinating under time pressure, such as going to the bathroom when there is a line formed behind them. And the longer the line, the higher the pressure. Some people thrive in elements of pressure, but not people with paruresis who have to pee! Others cannot pee when being observed by other people. This could either mean at a urinal in a men’s room or through a crack in a stall wall in any bathroom. Partitions in bathrooms are known not to give full privacy. Observation can even mean someone hearing him or her relieving themselves. Places like busy restaurants, movie theaters, locker rooms, airports, schools, shopping centers, concert halls, offices are difficult for thousands of people, who may hold it in until the line dwindles or until they get home.
What causes paruresis? Paruresis is a social anxiety order that can be linked to depression, obsessive-compulsive disorders and panic attacks. Paruretics are sometimes shy, or can be the person who has a fear of being scrutinized or teased by others. The mood, of the Paruretic can also be a factor. It has been found that some paruretics have a history of mental, or physical abuse, as children, especially while in bathrooms.
There is simple solution that is a suggested method of dealing with paruresis, backed by the International Paruresis Association. Freedom Pak Seven, or
Stadium Pal, and Gal Kits offered here at BioRelief.com are devices that those with paruresis can use to remain in comfort doing the things they wish to do away from home, without the need to excuse themselves to a bathroom they probably will not end up using. The
male and female external catheters are worn and concealed comfortably under the clothes, with a tube leading to a leg bag that collects and stores the urine for disposal later. So, someone with paruresis never has to grow anxious or nervous when they get that feeling we all get after a few cups of java. They can go when and where they want with no lines and no peeking. For more information on Paruresis visit the IPA web site
www.paruresis.org
