Could Childhood Trauma Contribute to Incontinence at Age 15?
I’m writing this anonymously as I prefer to keep this matter separate from my main Reddit account. Hello, I am a 15-year-old girl, standing at 5 feet 1 inch tall and weighing 95 pounds. I am not currently taking any medications and don’t have significant health issues aside from some mental health diagnoses. My issues began when I was about 6. There was an incident where I nearly fell over, and out of instinct, I leaned against my younger brother, causing him to tumble down. This enraged my father, who then yanked me by my hair. Out of sheer fear, I lost control of my bladder completely at that moment. Shortly thereafter, I noticed that every time he acted violently towards me or if I was yelled at loudly by an adult, I would involuntarily urinate. Now that I am a teenager, I continue to experience incontinence, particularly during stressful or anxious moments. This can range from minor leaks to significant loss of control. Along with this issue, I’m also coping with diagnosed conditions such as major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. I do not have a history of urinary tract infections or other related problems. I am reaching out with a couple of questions: Could my current incontinence have a connection to those traumatic experiences I went through as a child? Is there any medical or psychological support available that might assist someone with experiences like mine? Though I’m no longer a child, I find myself struggling with this ongoing issue, and it’s difficult for me to comprehend the reasons behind it. I appreciate any guidance or information you can provide. Thank you!
Answers (1)
9/7/2025, 6:20:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to seek clarity on how past trauma might impact your current health, especially regarding incontinence. Based on your experience, there can be a connection between childhood trauma and ongoing issues like incontinence, particularly in the context of stress and anxiety.
Explanation:
Incontinence, or losing control over urination, can be influenced by both physiological and psychological factors. Childhood trauma, especially when linked to fear or stress, can lead to heightened anxiety responses. This can manifest in physical ways—including involuntary urination—especially during moments of stress or anxiety. The body may react inappropriately to perceived threats, a response often linked to the nervous system's "fight or flight" reaction, which can affect bladder control.
Next Steps:
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Self-Reflection and Journaling: Begin tracking your incontinence episodes. Note the situations that trigger them—this can help you identify patterns related to stress, anxiety, or specific situations.
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Mindfulness Techniques: Practice stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. These can help you manage anxiety better and may reduce instances of incontinence.
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Psychological Support: Consider reaching out to a therapist who specializes in trauma or anxiety. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) could be particularly helpful as it addresses thought patterns and behaviors related to anxiety.
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Support Groups: Connecting with peers who have faced similar challenges may provide additional support and understanding. Look for local or online groups focusing on mental health or anxiety.
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Hydration Awareness: Maintain a healthy hydration schedule. Sometimes, limiting fluid intake before stressful situations can help manage incontinence, but ensure you’re still drinking enough water throughout the day.
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Professional Consultation: If the incontinence continues or worsens, seeking medical advice may be beneficial. Urologists or primary care providers can explore any underlying physical conditions and recommend further treatments or therapies.
By addressing both the psychological and physical aspects, you can work toward improved control and understanding of your incontinence. Remember, healing takes time, and it’s commendable that you are seeking help. Let me know if you need more info on any specific area!
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