Should I Disclose My Suicide Attempt to My Doctor?

I am very worried about being reported by the doctor?

Hello, doctor! Last week, I had a depressive episode and swallowed 60 Tylenol pills, but I vomited them all shortly after.
I have an appointment with the doctor next Thursday, and I'm very scared that if I tell the doctor, they will report it or admit me to the hospital.
Should I tell the doctor that I attempted suicide last week?

Wan Da, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/15

Dr. Huang Xiaoxian reply Psychiatry

Dear Wan, it sounds like you had a difficult time last week and are worried about being reported.
I'm not sure what you fear might happen as a result of the report.
Generally speaking, the main purpose of reporting is to ensure that healthcare professionals can continue to monitor your condition and provide assistance, as well as to prevent unfortunate events from occurring.
Regarding your discomfort, it is advisable to discuss it with your physician to adjust your treatment accordingly.
The intention behind hospitalization is also to modify treatment and prevent risks, and typically, your and your family's wishes will be respected.
If you and your family disagree with hospitalization, and you remain alert, capable of making sound judgments, and are not in immediate danger, you usually will not be forced into it.
I recommend discussing your concerns with your doctor.
Wishing you well.

Reply Date: 2020/08/15

More Info

It’s understandable to feel apprehensive about disclosing a suicide attempt to your doctor, especially when you fear the potential consequences, such as hospitalization or being reported. However, it is crucial to recognize that your doctor is there to help you, not to punish you. Open communication about your mental health struggles, including any suicide attempts, is essential for effective treatment and support.

When you visit your doctor, consider the following points:
1. Honesty is Key: Being honest about your experiences, including your suicide attempt, is vital for your doctor to understand your mental health condition fully. This information can help them tailor a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs. Mental health professionals are trained to handle such disclosures sensitively and confidentially.

2. Understanding the Risks: While it’s natural to worry about the possibility of hospitalization, it’s important to understand that doctors typically assess the situation based on the immediate risk you pose to yourself. If you are not currently in crisis and are seeking help, your doctor may focus on providing you with the necessary support and resources rather than resorting to hospitalization.

3. Seeking Support: Disclosing your struggles can open the door to additional support. Your doctor may refer you to a therapist or counselor who specializes in treating depression and suicidal ideation. This can provide you with a safe space to explore your feelings and develop coping strategies.

4. The Importance of Safety: If you are feeling suicidal or have thoughts of self-harm, it is crucial to prioritize your safety. Your doctor can help you create a safety plan, which may include identifying triggers, coping strategies, and emergency contacts. This plan can be a valuable tool in managing your mental health.

5. Confidentiality: Mental health professionals are bound by confidentiality laws, which means they cannot disclose your information without your consent, except in specific circumstances where there is an imminent risk of harm to yourself or others. Understanding this can help alleviate some of your fears about sharing your experiences.

6. Building Trust: Establishing a trusting relationship with your doctor is essential for your recovery. By being open about your struggles, you can foster a more collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship. This trust can lead to better outcomes in your treatment.

7. Consider the Benefits: While it may feel daunting, sharing your experience can ultimately lead to a more comprehensive understanding of your mental health. It can also help your doctor identify the most effective treatment options for you, whether that includes medication adjustments, therapy, or other interventions.

In conclusion, while it’s normal to feel scared about disclosing a suicide attempt, doing so can be a crucial step toward healing. Your doctor is there to support you, and being open about your struggles can lead to the help you need. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to help you navigate your mental health challenges. Prioritize your well-being, and consider discussing your feelings and experiences with your doctor during your upcoming appointment.

Similar Q&A

Should I Seek Help from a Mental Health Professional?

Hello, Doctor. I have a question as stated in the title, and this matter has been troubling me. It might be a bit lengthy, so I apologize in advance. Background: I started having slight suicidal thoughts around elementary school. Five years ago, the frequency increased, and I e...

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry
Hello. The content indicates that there are indeed mental and physical disturbances affecting work and daily life. It is recommended to seek treatment at a mental health clinic for improvement. If you are still hesitant, you can first utilize the 1925 mental health hotline for co...

Understanding Suicidal Thoughts and Emotional Struggles in Depression

Hello, doctor. I am a patient with severe depression and have recently been suspected of having hypomania. I have been undergoing medication treatment for five years and have completed one course of rTMS, but my condition remains uncontrolled. I initially thought that academic pr...

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
If a patient's condition becomes unstable due to transference towards their physician or therapist, it may be necessary to consider changing providers. If injections are causing severe pain, it is recommended to administer the injection deeper, and the medication should be s...

Understanding Your Mental Health: Questions About Diagnosis and Treatment

Hello, doctor 🤗. I previously visited a psychiatric clinic a few times, and the doctor prescribed me antidepressants. I haven't asked what exactly my condition is, but I remember the doctor asked if I still feel fearful. If I ask the doctor, will they tell me? Could it be de...

Dr. Tang Jiahong reply Psychiatry
Hello, ma'am: Your most urgent situation seems to be the risk of self-harm. I recommend that you approach this with an open mind and seek help from healthcare professionals you feel most comfortable with. If you encounter a physician who makes you feel hesitant, awkward, or ...

Am I Sick? Seeking Help for Hidden Mental Struggles

Doctor, please help me... Although I appear normal on the outside, I have been feeling immense pain inside. Every day is a struggle, and I often find myself overthinking. I feel very insecure and believe that I am imperfect in many ways. I frequently suffer from psychological dis...

Dr. Ding Shuyan reply Psychiatry
Hello, feeling down, having negative thoughts, or even thoughts of not wanting to live are experiences that many people go through. It's important to pay attention to the severity of these feelings and how long they last. Are they persistent, or do they improve quickly once ...