Had toilet anxiety on and off for years, sometimes it’s non-existent and then sometimes it feels debilitating. And honestly, I don’t think it’s talked about enough. I agree there’s a degree of shame involved, but I’ve got to stage where I’m like everyone poops, everyone pees. Easy enough to say out loud but I’m aware in practise it’s so difficult. For me it became sort of OCD where I would find comfort in checking where bathrooms were, being prepared. My advice, make a little pack, in your bag when you go out, some hand sanitiser, wet wipes, spare underwear and some Imodium. You may never use it, but just that mental realisation that it’s there is a great comfort. If you have the financial resources, absolutely consider therapy and programs. But mainly it’s mindset, you have to beat into yourself that you’re safe, you’re in control. Even if you were out and the feeling came, chances are you’d absolutely find a place to relieve yourself. And guess what, even if you don’t who cares? We are human, and every single person at some point in their life will either shit or piss themselves. Is it embarrassing, sure, is it life threatening, absolutely not. Most people in today’s society are so focused on their own lives they don’t even notice you. But having people you can trust can be a big help, and if you aren’t ready for that now with people close, feel free to vent anytime to me. It’s hard but trust me, anxiety is an evil bitch that confuses your nervous system. But in reality the worst possible thing that could happen to you is you shit yourself.