What Paruresis is

The current definition of paruresis is a mental disability in which the sufferer is unable to urinate in the presence or perceived presence of others. Because of the social nature of the condition it has been labeled as an anxiety disorder. There is still debate however, as to whether paruresis is an anxiety disorder or a symptom of anxiety. Most people who suffer from this condition probably do have other mental issues but obtaining such data about a disorder that, by nature causes it's victims to avoid talking about it at all costs is anything but easy. In my own case this is certainly true. While seeing a psychiatrist for anxiety which he deemed as bipolar disorder I could not admit to being paruretic. In fact the only times I have ever admitted to it was when I was put in situations where I had to hold it for so long the pain became unbearable and on this nice, annonymous blog. Paruresis is listed in the statistical manual of mental disorders as a mental condition, not the symptom of one. Judging by the law suits won against companies who were unwilling to change their drug testing policies to accomadate paruretics one can only assume that shy bladder syndrome is it's own disorder. This may have some implications as far as treatment is concerned. If an underlying cause is not treated the symptoms of it will often continue.

I find it surprising that more companies are not changing their methods of testing to accomidate people who suffer from paruresis. When looking for a job I find a lot of jobs I will not even bother to apply to because of this. It's almost tempting to call them out on it but I could never force myself to do that. In fact, I am unsure of how the laws in my area work concerning paruresis and having a hard time finding out. Comments are appreciated although I certainly do not expect any on a subject as embarrassing as this.