*I apologize for the trigger label - I wasn't exactly sure how to label it, and as my post deals with matters (or mentions matters) of abuse, suicide and SI, I thought "Graphic/Triggering" might be most suitable*
So, I have my first appointment with the psychiatrist on Friday.
Saying it's my first, I mean generally, and I've never been to one before...
Could somebody possibly give me a rough idea of the questions asked and the procedures conducted for such things as suicide and SI?
I was also wondering about the matter of confidentiality - if certain responses seem alarming (like talk of reoccurring sexual abuse or something), can they tell my parents (obviously if they didn't know)?
Also, if I reveal suicidal thoughts (if I somehow managed to "open up" O-o), at what extreme can they refer me to something like an institution or COC (dunno if it's national, but that's "Circles of Care" - a "treatment" center, which I've heard for something such as SI will take you for about two-three days *dunno how that's much effective, but hey*, dunno about suicidal thoughts though)?
What's the general response to self-injury?
Sorry if the questions seem confusing, jumbled, or...quite frankly...stupid, but I was just wondering.
hey hun..firstly none of your questions are stupid and it all makes perfect sense.
i'll try and answer what i can, but i can only go on what my own experience has been with counsellors, psychologists etc. usually at your first session the psychiatrist will ask you what you want to discuss and why you are there. they will probably ask you a load of questions about how and why you SI and with suicide they will maybe try to find out how long you have been feeling suicidal, if you have plans, and just try to find out how serious they think you are.
the thing with telling your parents is a bit harder to answer...it depends on how old you are, if your old enough then they aren't allowed to tell your parents. if your under age and the abuse is still going on then they are obliged to report it.
so im not sure if any of that helps but yea...it really depends on the person you are seeing, if they are good then they will take the time to listen to you and try to work out the best course of action to keep you safe etc.
good luck sweetie
xoxoxox
Do not follow the common path.....go where there is no path and leave a trail.....
Nah! These questions all make sense-I ask myself that everytime I visit a shrink. If you're in 'danger' then they'll have to talk to your parents-so that could possibly mean reoccuring abuse. I'm gonna be honest and say I've had a lousy experience about talking about abuse-it's like they constantly annoy you to tell someone, guilt you-if you get me. But maybe that's a good thing? Anyways-if they try to force you to do something that you're not ready to do-be strong-say no!
And about suicide-I wouldn't know what to think. I took an overdose-and my shrink didn't care. But one time I said casually 'I'd prefer to kill myself' and she alerted my whole family-but then again-she did ask me was it okay to talk to them. Just be strong say what you mean.
Oh dear, I didn't reassure you did I? I'm sorry like I've said-I have a bad experience. But I'd say go in guns blazing, be as honest as you can be. Because what good does it do you to lie & hide?
That's worse than not getting help-everyone thinking it's 'okay'
I agree with all the above and also wanted to say that if it would help your parents knowing about the abuse, especially if it is reccuring maybe it would be a good thing as they could help keep you safe.
As for suicide, if they think you are at serious risk to yourself they have to say something, but it is only to protect you, you have the right to tell them how you want them to tell your parents so maybe try to use that so that it gets out how you meant it to be. Take care and I hope it all goes ok.
X Marie X
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First off, thanks so much for your responses and support. I have a better idea of what would go on now, and I think I know what I should do.
Also, I think I should've been a bit more clear though - I'm a minor (for the "if you're old enough"s), and the abuse was reoccurring a few years ago (ages 4-8/9 or so). There are reasons why I'd rather not talk about that to them - it's the kind of thing that would literally tear the family apart.
Anyway, thanks so much again! I really appreciate it.
~Senzafine
Last edited by Senzafine : 12-06-2007 at 09:18 AM.
Reason: Typos
Well, my appointment was supposed to be on Friday, however it was cancelled...
Not to sound whiny, but it kind of upsets me. I know that I need it, and my parents do as well...or more exclusively, my mother.
It was set that I would be leaving sometime after June 14th (best friend's Birthday, leaving after for a trip to New York to live with my distant family for a month or so, to get away from everyone, somewhat bad relations with immediate family)...she knew that...I mean, if she didn't I would understand, but since we're still arranging everything, it kind of upsets me.
Anyway, sorry for whining, and thanks again. ^^;
