Im a 22 year old male college student. About a year and a half ago
while sitting in a hospital room (my Grandfather was dying of cancer)
with some of my family I unexpectedly urinated in my pants. I tried
to play it off like I had spilled the cup of tea I was holding but
suspect that they saw what happened. Anyway since then it hasn't
happened again but nevertheless I am continually distressed by the
prospect that it might. Basically anytime I find myself in a
situation where it would be difficult to get to a bathroom for an
extended time, I tend to panic. I've developed some pretty severe
anxiety issues and depression because of this and really slid downhill
in many aspects of my life, including grades and romance. After
struggling for some time now I've finally decided that I can't go it
alone anymore and am in the process of getting some professional help
and probably taking some time off school. It was difficult enough for
me to speak to my parents about the anxiety and depression. So I dont
plan on ever bringing up my true fear because I think it would just be
far too embarassing for me. Any advice on dealing with this shame?