Posted by Rob on 4/11/2008, 7:54 am, in reply to "Re: Planes and Trains"

Marcus, Your story and mine are almost identical! I have been affected by paruresis for about 36 years! Planes became difficult about 10 years ago as a result (I believe) of reduced "flow" as we get older - prostate growth which is perfectly normal. Equally, getting older has made it more difficult to cope with the anxiety of this condition so I decided to try a workshop. It has been very useful and I am about to go on the Manchester follow-up one for part of it. I recently went on a seven hour flight to bermuda and thankfully the plane was part full and there were plenty of toilets. I am not sure but most of the long-haul planes should have three or four toilets at either end pus some in the middle. I think I could cope with this but would be timing my runs to the loo very carefully!! My wife wants to travel (and so do I!) so don't delay getting yourself on a workshop. The best pharmaceuticals are those that relieve the anxiety (in my view) so a short-acting benzodiazepine works well as do certain beta blockers. The anxiety makes you want to pee even more so taking a pill reduces the worry and you become more normal - but a bit drowsy! If you ask your GP for some (you could always say you are just nervous of flying) he/she will prescribe a short course.Hope this helps. Rob

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