Graphic - Just some advice about asking for help

[ellb26]

Ok, so I am new here, but I really needed some advice. I have been self harming for four years. But let me stress this isn't all the time! Sometimes I literally feel great, like on top of the world. Even my social interaction increases But then afterwards I come crashing down and that leads to my behaviour like self harm, and in the past suicide attempts. But I feel so listless when I am like this, and cannot bring myself to do anything.

But I told my friend that I was thinking of going to the doctors, and she basically told me not to bother. As most teenagers go through what I'm going through, and I will grow out of it. But I was just wondering, if I did go to the doctors and tell her this basically, but stress that I am not suicidal, can they break confidentiality? Bear in mind I am a few days off being 18

[Ampelmann]

I think going to the doctors would be a good idea. I sometimes wonder whether what i do/feel is a normal response that everyone feels and acts on in one way or another too (can't decide) but in a sense that doesnt matter. They will more than likely be able to help you feel better either with meds or therapy if they think you need it or just by giving you some ideas about how to modify behaviour or think more positively. There's nothing really to lose if you think you want to try. I highly doubt they would tell anyone without your consent.

[ellb26]

I am just terrified of sounding stupid and I'm scared of the Doctor not taking me seriously. Or even worse, she decides I need further help and contacts my mum. I don't need that, I've been handling it fine for 4 years now. I just don't want to slip back into suicidal tendencies again :/ I just don't know what to do

[Wandering-in-circles]

hey :) going to the doctor sounds like a good idea. They should listen to you and give you advice on what to do. They are not allowed to contact your mum if you say you don't want them to know. If they do they'll be going against the patient confidental act thing. Also since you're nearly 18 they can't contact your parents unless you ask them too. hope this helps :)