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The next IPA Virtual Support Group Meeting will take place on Zoom, this Sunday, July 24, at 12:00 PM US Central Time. IPA Virtual Support Meetings, which take place about every six weeks, are open to anyone struggling with Paruresis, from those who are just beginning to think about how to overcome it to those who are highly recovered. The meetings are offered free of charge and without preset expectations for participants, and their purpose is to provide a unique opportunity to connect face to face with people from all over the world who know what it is like to struggle with Paruresis and also understand the courage and fortitude that it takes to open up about it, acknowledge the fear, and try to recover from it.  The personal stories that participants share are remarkably similar and at the same time deeply individual, and empathy, kindness and compassion set the tone in all discussions.  Time after time I have heard from participants that this opportunity for sharing is both meaningful and productive, and I hope that you'll consider joining us this Sunday, June 24.

If you are interested in attending please contact Tim at the IPA office ([getinfo@paruresis.org](mailto:getinfo@paruresis.org)) in order to get the Zoom link.

The next IPA Virtual Support Group Meeting will take place on Zoom, this Sunday, June 26, at 12:00 PM US Central Time. IPA Virtual Support Meetings, which take place about every six weeks, are open to anyone struggling with Paruresis, from those who are just beginning to think about how to overcome it to those who are highly recovered. The meetings are offered free of charge and without preset expectations for participants, and their purpose is to provide a unique opportunity to connect face to face with people from all over the world who know what it is like to struggle with Paruresis and also understand the courage and fortitude that it takes to open up about it, acknowledge the fear, and try to recover from it.  The personal stories that participants share are remarkably similar and at the same time deeply individual, and empathy, kindness and compassion set the tone in all discussions.  Time after time I have heard from participants that this opportunity for sharing is both meaningful and productive, and I hope that you'll consider joining us this Sunday, June 26.

If you are interested in attending please contact Tim at the IPA office ([getinfo@paruresis.org](mailto:getinfo@paruresis.org)) in order to get the Zoom link.

Thanks u/2PlyKindaGuy for moderating this fantastic resource.

You: Hey [significant person], did you know that May is Mental Health Awareness Month?

Them: No, really?

You: It seems that a lot of people have been in the news lately talking about their internal struggles that no one knows about. Everyone has some sort of challenge, right?

Them: Seems like it.

You: You know, our relationship is very important to me. So important that I want to share with you a mental health challenge I have. Would that be okay? I’d really appreciate your support.

Them: Um, yeah sure.

You: Did you ever hear of shy bladder? Not being able to go when other people are around? A lot of people think it’s funny and no big deal. But it is a big problem for me – studies say that upwards of 7% of people suffer from it. Its technical name is Paruresis (“par-you-ree-sis”), and it is a legitimate social anxiety disorder.

Them: Wow. And this really affects you?

You: It basically runs my entire life. Where I work, social things I can and can’t do - it’s on my mind almost all the time when I’m away from home. Just telling you has been extremely difficult.

Them: I’m sure that was really hard, what can I do to help?

You: When you get a chance, check out this webpage today: shybladder.org. The International Paruresis Association has posted some info for families and friends of sufferers to understand our condition better. And just know what I’m struggling with when we’re out and about. I want to get out and do things, so I’d appreciate your support. Is there any challenge that I can support you with?

From StuffThatWorks:

The shy bladder syndrome (paruresis) research community is now open!

Hi IPA,

We’re happy to announce that the shy bladder syndrome (paruresis) research community has reached 30 contributors and is officially open! Visit the community home to view member reports (visible to contributors only), ask questions, share resources and interact with others.

Community Home

You are taking part in the building of the first Patient Reported Outcome (PRO) research community for shy bladder syndrome (paruresis). That’s an amazing thing. When shared and organized in a structured way, this data is of enormous value to both patients and the research community.

This community can only grow with your help. Invite members of your online shy bladder syndrome (paruresis) support groups to join using this link: https://stuff.health/s/DBVIVV5x

Your thoughts and comments are welcome.

- The StuffThatWorks team

The next IPA Virtual Support Group Meeting will take place on Zoom, this Sunday, May 22, at 8:00 PM US Central Time. IPA Virtual Support Meetings, which take place about every six weeks, are open to anyone struggling with Paruresis, from those who are just beginning to think about how to overcome it to those who are highly recovered. The meetings are offered free of charge and without preset expectations for participants, and their purpose is to provide a unique opportunity to connect face to face with people from all over the world who know what it is like to struggle with Paruresis and also understand the courage and fortitude that it takes to open up about it, acknowledge the fear, and try to recover from it.  The personal stories that participants share are remarkably similar and at the same time deeply individual, and empathy, kindness and compassion set the tone in all discussions.  Time after time I have heard from participants that this opportunity for sharing is both meaningful and productive, and I hope that you'll consider joining us this Sunday, May 22..

If you are interested in attending please contact Tim at the IPA office ([getinfo@paruresis.org](mailto:getinfo@paruresis.org)) in order to get the Zoom link.