Posted by sim on 25/11/2010, 10:31 pm, in reply to "Re: Forum Newbie"

I have had this problem for years! I think it started at school when I used to get bullied in the toilets, someone would push the back of my knees whilst I was at the urinals and I think that's where it all started. One thing I don't understand is that I know where it stems from but this doesn't seem to help. When people have irrational fears such as spiders then therapy helps them and they can ultimately confront their fears and overcome them. I suppose it is more of a combination of psychological and physical fear though. I find it really hard to go at a urinal unless I am alone, if I start then someone comes in then I freeze and can't continue. It must seem strange to them that I am still standing there when they have finished. When I used to go to pubs and clubs some of the cubicles didn't have locks on them and it was a real nightmare having to go, knowing that anyone could walk in at anytime. If I'm at an airport and there is a massive queue for the toilets then I wait until it has gone and then try to find a cubicle. I have real problems trying to go in a coach/bus toilet, the combination of vibration and lack of space makes it impossible. Sometimes I have held it in for so long that it takes me ages to go even in a cubicle! My girlfriend seems to think that I have an enlarged prostate but I don't think that's the case. Sometimes if I am too hot or dehydrated then it takes a long time too. Very frustrating! It's good to find that people have similar problems and have overcome them. I still find it hard to talk about it and still feel a bit ashamed and angry but you all seem very friendly and supportive.

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