"Carol Olmert has written a crucial and much
needed guide for women suffering from paruresis, or shy bladder syndrome.
Until now, there have only been a few publications on the subject: a general
book, a book for men, and a book of recovery stories. Her book adds to the
literature in an important, accessible, and well-written way. Perhaps most
importantly, Ms. Olmert goes to great lengths to cover the latest treatment methods available for paruresis, some of which
have not been discussed in print before. Moreover, she provides many practical
suggestions, including resources for traveling, alternatives to bathroom use,
and a good discussion of many of the current issues that affect the paruretic
community."
Steven Soifer, PhD, LGSW
Co-founder and CEO, International Paruresis Association
Author, Shy Bladder Syndrome:
Your Step-By-Step Guide to Overcoming Paruresis
“Carol
Olmert has made a major contribution to the literature on paruresis (shy
bladder syndrome). Her comprehensive book provides practical, clear, effective
information on understanding and recovering from the condition. While
explicitly written for women, anyone can benefit from reading her work;
sufferers, clinicians, and support people will find this an invaluable
resource.”
Carl Robbins, MS, MEd, NCC, LCPC
Director of Training, Anxiety & Stress Disorders Institute of MD
International Paruresis Association Co-Founder
“I
didn’t realize this could be such a problem,” a physician once told me. That
quote came to my mind after reading this excellent book. I especially like the
biographical accounts; also the technical detail of catheter usage for severely
unreliable urinary systems is a green flag to me of this book’s accuracy. Bravo
Carol – what a blessing this book is for women and men struggling to overcome
paruresis!”
Phil Baumgaertner
Former International Paruresis Association President
“Finally,
a book that talks about the taboo subject of paruresis. Carol Olmert’s book is
a well written, thoughtful and serious exploration of paruresis,
which is a disorder that has caused endless suffering and shame
among the millions of women with this affliction. Therapists will find the
information provided informative and instructive and those that suffer from
this debilitating disorder will not only find solace in knowing they are not
alone but step-by-step instructions on how to overcome this disorder. A must
for all therapists’ bookshelves!”
Ruth Lippin, LMSW
New York, New
York
“In Bathrooms
Make Me Nervous, Carol Olmert delivers a thorough, clear and accessible
guide for women who struggle with urination anxiety, otherwise known as
paruresis. Olmert’s work offers more than a “how to” for women with this
problem. In reading this guide anyone involved in the life of a woman with this
issue will gain an authentic understanding of their loved one’s struggle. Most
importantly, Carol Olmert presents a message of hope. A MUST READ for all
concerned about paruresis.”
Philip Haber, MS
Former International Paruresis Association Vice President
Well-Known
'Princess of Pee' & Shy Bladder Expert Carol Olmert is Author of
Helpful New Book BATHROOMS MAKE ME NERVOUS: A Guidebook for Women with
Urination :
Posted 02 December 2008 @ 11:10 am ET
For over 40 years, author and researcher Carol Olmert suffered from thedamaging
effects of shy bladder syndrome (paruresis). She has taken everything
she has learned about living with and overcoming this debilitating,
inevitably embarrassing condition to write her newly-published book, BATHROOMS MAKE ME NERVOUS: A Guidebook for Women with Urination Anxiety.
"This book is written for women who find it hard to urinate in
bathrooms with others nearby or who avoid using public restrooms
altogether," says Olmert. "Most people take the process of urination
for granted as a natural, normal part of their daily existence. A
minority of women and men - an estimated 7% of the U.S. population -
are bathroom-challenged. They have fears that prevent their use of
public or private restrooms when others are present."
"Some women put up with their problem, diminishing its importance
in their lives or developing daily routines to accommodate it. Others
who cannot produce urine specimens to meet drug testing requirements
face the consequence of work loss," explains the author. "In severe
cases, people will not go out socially, take vacations or work around
others - all desperate attempts in restroom avoidance."
Many are unaware that they have a treatable condition, a type of
social anxiety disorder. Unfortunately, those who seek professional
help from physicians and therapists often encounter ignorance,
skepticism, or denial.
In BATHROOMS MAKE ME NERVOUS, Olmert shares the
wisdom that she and other women have gained from their personal
experiences. Readers will learn that there is nothing wrong with them
and discover practical, easy-to-follow steps for overcoming this
dreaded condition.
The recently published BATHROOMS MAKE ME NERVOUS: A Guidebook for Women with Urination Anxiety sells for $19.95 online at Amazon.com, at www.Lulu.com/bathroomsmakemenervous, and through the International Paruresis Association. More information is available at www.bathroomsmakemenervous.com.
About Carol Olmert:
Carol Olmert holds a B.A. from UCLA in Pre-Social Welfare. She has
worked as a Market Research Analyst for large corporations and as an
Administrator for several non-profits. Carol is actively involved in
the International Paruresis Association (IPA): she is the Women's
Coordinator and an Advisory Board Member. She also conducts women's
workshops for recovery from paruresis.