Posted by Richard on 5/6/2009, 12:53 pm

Dear All I have been reading many of the posts during the past two weeks with great interest as I never realised that the term Paruresis existed. It has come as a great relief that I am not the only one suffering with this awful phobia. I have been able to deal with my issues as I have always been fortunate enough to have a 'safe environment' wherever I have been based ie cubicles. Beyond that I have dealt with this as best I can. I decided in recent years to not let this control my life and go out, dealing with each eventuality as it comes. However, a few weeks ago I went out to the pub with a few friends. Absolutely bursting I went to a small toilet (two urinals, one cubicle). Nothing happened. Moved from the urinal to the cubicle and after what seemed like an age I went, always concious as to what they were thinking and whether someone was going to walk in. I now have a business event which is a day out followed by an evening meal. I am dreading it but will see it through. This has undoubtedly led me to doing some research. I guess I am on here to seek guidance. I have had cbt before which was successful and clearly a gradual rehabilitation is the answer. I know that. it is having the confidence to get it under way. Good luck to you all. Richard

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