Triggering (SI) - Scared about doctor visit.

BetweenTheLines · 03-08-2009, 05:26 AM

I have a doctor's appointment on Tuesday, which i just found out about today. I'm starting to get pretty worried that my doctor might see some scars that i didn't have last time. I can't do anything to prevent her finding them except hope that she doesn't, so I'm getting really scared.
I have no idea what will happen if she sees them. Would she tell my parents? Would she make me get some sort of help?
I am 18 and in the US, so i was hoping that she wouldn't tell my parents since i am a legal adult....
I'm really clueless on this subject. If anyone has any experience/knowledge on this subject, i would REALLY appreciate it.

SoMuchMore · 03-08-2009, 05:51 AM

Not exactly a doctors appt, but every time i used to see a psychiatrist or therapist they would ask me before they told my parents anything. If you are really concerned about it, and they notice something, voice that you do not want your parents to know. As you are 18 they shouldn't be able to tell them anything.

laughingdoll · 03-08-2009, 07:47 AM

Hey,
As your 18 now & a legal adult, they shouldn't tell your parents anything. If the doctor does see the scars, she's likely to ask if you are getting any support for the self harm, and see if maybe she can help you by getting you more support, however I very highly doubt she can force you to get help.

I'd try not to worry yourself too much about it - This sadly won't be the first time, and also sadly won't be the last time that your doctor has seen someone with Self harm marks/scars on them, and she may be very understanding.

Take care, & Let us know how it goes,
Louise x

iliketea416 · 03-08-2009, 10:55 AM

I don't think they can tell your parents because of your age.

I found that my GP was very understanding when I did eventually come clean about my self harm but I understand that it's not all that easy. She just asked if I was ok, and if I wanted to talk about it. The first few times, I didn't, and she just let it go, but asked if I could come back next week, and just gently reassured me that she was there if she needed me.

However, I have had a few bad experiences, but I always find that if you just say that you don't want to talk about it then they stop asking.

Really hope it goes well!

88shelz · 03-08-2009, 11:15 AM

unless you are putting your life at risk or express wanting to risk your life the doctor cant tell your parents unless you ask the doctor to tell them.

dont forget the doctor is there to help. mental illness is treated just as any other illness (or at least should be) so dont hide it . be truthful while you are there and take advantage of the help as some people don get a chance to have the help and end up in a bad place emotionally and physically.

good luck for you appointment. dont be worrying x

Katiee · 04-08-2009, 01:19 AM

Hey, I hope it goes okai. *hugs*
As you're 18 she wouldn't tell your parents. Maybe it might be good thing if she find the scars as she'll be able to support you or put you in touch with someone who could help you with your self-harming? Please try not to worry, sweetie. xo.

BetweenTheLines · 04-08-2009, 06:12 PM

Thanks so much for the responses everyone! I'm feeling a little better about this whole thing.
As it turns out, my appointment got pushed up a couple weeks, so I don't have to deal with it quite yet.