Is this normal?

LegacyUser

Firstly I'd just like to apologise if what I'm asking has been covered in a previous thread, I did a quick search but didn't find anything.

Basically I think I suffer from bipolar disorder. I've thought so for a long time now but I really just ignored it recently because I was going through a relatively good stretch. But in the very recent past I've begun to feel depression creeping back up on me, and this time I want to do something about it, but before I go to my GP I have just a few questions, for anybody who might be able to help me out

1. Can my GP tell my parents (I'm under 18) if I come to him about depression? They have a reasonably good relationship with him but I wouldn't want them to find out.
2. Can he or anyone he refers me to put me on a medication without my consent?

Personally I like the possibilty of working through this kind of problem with some sort of counselling, or psychotherapy etc. and I was wondering...

3. How confidential is what is said to such a person? Are they allowed to tell anyone for any reason?

I know these questions probably seem a little paranoid so I apologise for that, but this is something that I really need to know. I've been suicidal several times before and don't really want to risk it happening again.

Thanks to anyone who replies...

StarryBud

Hi,

I think the best person to ask these questions are the doctors/counsellers themselves. If you're satisfied with their responses to the questions you asked above then go from there. I think you should also seriously consider telling your parents how you feel. They are on your side and would only help and support you. This would make your life a lot easier especially as young people have enough pressures on them already. It's great that you're open to treatment and I hope the route you take works out for you.

Beruthiel

unreg2007 wrote:

Basically I think I suffer from bipolar disorder.

Self diagnosis is never, ever a good thing. You need to go see a doctor and discuss with them.

Can my GP tell my parents (I'm under 18) if I come to him about depression? They have a reasonably good relationship with him but I wouldn't want them to find out.

Can I ask why? Most parents would want to go out of their way to help you if you needed it. What is your relationship like with them?

Can he or anyone he refers me to put me on a medication without my consent?

No

Personally I like the possibilty of working through this kind of problem with some sort of counselling

Then start with that.

How confidential is what is said to such a person? Are they allowed to tell anyone for any reason?

Not if you don't want them to.

I've been suicidal several times before and don't really want to risk it happening again.

If you are not comfortable with your family doctor, then go to a different one. Do it asap before you start slipping to a place you don't wish to be.
Again, have you nobody in your family that you can talk to about this? They would be more than glad to help you I'm sure.

Cancer-chick

OP there has been so much coverage in the media lately with so called 'celebrities' announcing they are bi-polar .. It is unlikely you are but it is too easy to self diagnose and spiral from there

The only way to know is to get a referral from your GP to an accredited Psychiatrist which i know sounds daunting but really at the end of the day is just a means to an end ..

My advice is see the GP to put your mind at ease .. If you have bipolar the sooner you get diagnosed the better.. If you dont and you are simply going through a hard time mentally like many of us have or will the psych can refer you to correct avenue of treatment

Seraphina

Beruthiel wrote:

Not if you don't want them to.

thats not entirely true
the OP mentioned suicidal feelings. should the OP mention a plan to act upon these feeling to a doctor/counsellor they are required by law to report it.
this is only if you seem serious about hurting yourself or someone else

just so ya know.