Resources
Recommended Resources
Over the years, I’ve discovered resources that have played an important role in my own journey and understanding of shy bladder syndrome (paruresis).
I’ve gathered some of them here, along with my own videos, articles, and other resources that I hope you’ll find helpful.
Shy Bladder (Paruresis) Resources
International Paruresis Association (IPA)
The International Paruresis Association provides information, support groups, workshops, and resources for people experiencing shy bladder syndrome (paruresis).
Pee Shy Documentary
A documentary exploring the often-hidden experience of living with paruresis. I’m grateful to have participated in the documentary and to have had the opportunity to share part of my experience.
Feeling the Flow: Creating Freedom from Shy Bladder Syndrome
My book shares my personal experience of living with shy bladder for more than 50 years and the journey that ultimately led me to discover a freedom I never thought was possible.
The Secret Social Phobia
A resource for learning more about paruresis and the experiences of people who live with it.
New to Shy Bladder? Start Here
If you’re just beginning to learn about shy bladder syndrome, or you’ve been living with paruresis for years and are looking for a different perspective, these videos and articles are a good place to start.
What Is Shy Bladder Syndrome (Paruresis)?
Learn more about what paruresis is, why everyone’s experience can be different, and how shy bladder can affect much more than the few minutes you spend in a restroom.
My Story: Living With Shy Bladder for More Than 50 Years
I lived with shy bladder for more than five decades. In this video and article, I share my story, the impact paruresis had on my life, and what ultimately led me to seek help.
Why Can I Pee at Home but Not in Public?
For years, I could easily use the bathroom at home but freeze up when I reached an airport or public restroom. I share my experience with the “what if I can’t go?” thinking and what I eventually came to understand about it.
More Shy Bladder Topics
I’m continuing to create videos and articles based on my lived experience with paruresis, what I’ve learned along the way, and my work today as The Shy Bladder Coach.
Topics include graduated exposure, breath holding, traveling with shy bladder, paruresis in the workplace, relationships, anticipatory anxiety, and the thoughts and fears that can surround using public restrooms.
Podcasts & Interviews
#165: Mike Hurd on Overcoming Shy Bladder Syndrome and Advocating for Mental Health Awareness
In this conversation, I share my personal experience with anxiety and shy bladder syndrome, the turning point that led me to seek help, and some of what I’ve learned along the way. We also discuss the importance of talking openly about challenges that are often kept hidden and turning personal struggles into opportunities for growth.
We’re Listening: Season 2, Episode 1
Mike Hurd: “There is Hope”
In this conversation, I share more about my experience with shy bladder and the hope I’ve discovered along the way.
Books by Sydney Banks
Videos by Sydney Banks
Books That Have Influenced My Work
The Inside-Out Revolution: The Only Thing You Need to Know to Change Your Life Forever by Michael Neill
Slowing Down to the Speed of Life: How to Create a More Peaceful, Simpler Life From The Inside Out by Richard Carlson and Joe Bailey
The Secret to Mental Health: An Operating Manual for the Human Mind by George Pransky, Ph.D
It’s That Simple: A User’s Manual for Human Beings by Mavis Karn
Clarity: Clear Mind, Better Performance, Bigger Results by Jamie Smart
Invisible Power, Insight Principles at Work by Ken Manning, Robin Charbit and Sandra Krot
Instant Motivation: The Surprising Truth Behind What Really Drives Top Performance by Chantal Burns
Modello: A Story of Hope For the Inner City and Beyond by Jack Pransky
Somebody Should Have Told Us!: Simple Truths For Living Well by Jack Pransky