Using a public toilet is harmless for some, but it is a nightmare for others. Parcopresis, the inability to relieve oneself outside of one’s home, affects many people who do not dare to talk about it. This disorder linked to social anxiety is based on the fear of judgment. It causes discomfort that impacts daily life, both personally and professionally. After confinement, returning to work has accentuated this anxiety for many.
A common but taboo social anxiety disorder
According to a survey carried out by IFOP in 2021 relayed by Ouest France, 44% of French people admit to feeling uncomfortable at the idea of defecating at work, a percentage that rises to 60% among women. This study highlights the extent to which parcopresis is a widespread but still largely underestimated phenomenon.
Discomfort around using public restrooms is often compounded by the layout of the space, noise, or proximity to coworkers. These add a layer of anxiety that can be difficult to overcome.
This fear is not uncommon, and many people find devious ways to avoid using public restrooms. 53% of respondents would feel more comfortable if they could leave their workplace to go to the restroom elsewhere.
This fear is often associated with traumatic experiences earlier in life. In some cases, parcopresis may be linked to more serious disorders such as social anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
The physical and psychological consequences
Parcopresis can have serious physical consequences if left untreated. Holding it in too often can cause abdominal pain, hemorrhoids, or chronic constipation. Some patients with chronic conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome find their daily lives seriously disrupted.
In 2021, a study by Gut Stuff found that 18% of respondents found using shared bathrooms to be the biggest Source of stress when returning to the office after lockdown. This type of fear doesn’t just affect physical health. It also impacts productivity and quality of life on a daily basis.
The impact on social life is very real. Some people avoid going out or traveling, simply because they are afraid of having to use a public toilet. This anxiety can become so intense that some people prefer to stay at home for long periods of time. This ends up isolating them, cutting them off from the outside world and their social interactions.
Solutions to overcome parcopresis
Fortunately, there are solutions to help people suffering from parcopresis. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the methods most recommended by specialists.
It involves helping patients gradually confront their fears by exposing them to stressful situations in a controlled manner. This may include, for example, gradually using toilets in increasingly public environments. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, are also effective in helping to reduce the stress associated with using the toilet.
Some companies are also tackling this problem. They are adopting simple solutions, such as improving the soundproofing of restrooms or adding scent diffusers. These small changes make these spaces more comfortable for those who suffer from this phobia.
In Australia, the “It’s Okay To Poo At Work” campaign has emerged, aiming to destigmatize using the office toilet. Cited by IFLScience, the initiative, along with practical tips, encourages open dialogue about gut health and seeks to reduce anxiety around the topic.
In some cases, consulting a mental health professional may be necessary to treat severe forms of parcopresis. A psychologist or therapist specializing in anxiety disorders can help identify the causes of this phobia. They also support the patient in developing practical strategies to better manage the situation on a daily basis.
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