“I recently overcame a social anxiety disorder I've lived with for 50 years, called Paruresis (shy bladder), in less than one month.”
For all of my life that I can remember, I've lived with a shy bladder. I never thought I would recover from this condition, which has been a painful, shameful, difficult thing to live with. Prior to the past month I have only told 1 person about it. Recently, with the help of my wife, I discovered an organization called the International Paruresis Association (IPA) (https://www.paruresis.org) which has changed my life in ways that are hard to describe.
Although I’ve been successful in many different jobs and owning my own companies, this condition has made it difficult for me to travel, or to work in an office, because using a public bathroom was difficult or even impossible. Personal activities with my family have been difficult as well. Most of my life has revolved around “where can I find a bathroom that I can actually relieve myself”.
I want to talk about my story because I think that bringing more awareness to this condition may help someone recover from Paruresis, which affects many people’s lives and careers for a variety of reasons. And it also may help improve the deplorable public and workplace bathroom conditions that still exist today. Improvements have been made, like at BWI Airport (https://lnkd.in/espVatgR). But we still have a long way to go, at least in the U.S.
I will also be appearing in an upcoming documentary, which is being created by a new friend of mine with the hopes to bring awareness to this condition, which affects approximately 20-25 million Americans, and about 220 million people globally.
I hope to share my story of overcoming this social anxiety disorder on a podcast so that it helps others who are dealing with this condition realize that they are not alone and that there is hope.
You can read about my story here on my blog:
Post 1: https://michaelrhurd.com/overcoming-my-shy-bladder/
Post 2: https://michaelrhurd.com/my-not-so-shy-bladder-anymore/
Professionally I'm a life coach and business coach and a Registered 3 Principles Global Community (3PGC) Practitioner. I also help companies in the automotive industry that are looking to grow their business, serving in consulting or strategic revenue roles.
Personally, I live in Maine with my wife of 32 years and have two adult daughters and son in laws. I am a US Masters Certified Swim Coach and Adult Learn to Swim Instructor. I've also served on the board of the New England Local Masters Swimming Committee and Maine Masters Swim Club.
Thanks!
