too scared to talk to a dr/therapist about mental health

BeautyFromPain

I had depression from the ages of 13 to 19 and was in recovery for a year, but relapsed just over a month ago.
I know that I need help but I'm too scared to go to a dr.. I feel like they will judge me.
I also do have a school counsellor I could talk to but I don't like talking about myself.. I get really anxious over having to see a counsellor/dr.

Any tips on how to overcome this?

Polly758

There are hotlines you can call-- I've called one in the past though I forget which one. This one is coming up first in my searches, so chances are it was this one

http://www.ulifeline.org/get_help_now
1-800-273-TALK (8255)

That one is for suicide prevention, even if it's not exactly your situation they can refer you.

I also see "a place of hope" with a hotline, 1-888-771-5166.

ANother list of resources
http://www.healthyplace.com/other-info/resources/mental-health-hotline-numbers-and-referral-resources/

If you don't want to talk to a counselor, is there a professor you like and trust? Maybe even someone to simply go with you to the counselor?

BeautyFromPain

There are hotlines you can call-- I've called one in the past though I forget which one. This one is coming up first in my searches, so chances are it was this one

http://www.ulifeline.org/get_help_now
1-800-273-TALK (8255)

That one is for suicide prevention, even if it's not exactly your situation they can refer you.

I also see "a place of hope" with a hotline, 1-888-771-5166.

ANother list of resources
http://www.healthyplace.com/other-info/resources/mental-health-hotline-numbers-and-referral-resources/

If you don't want to talk to a counselor, is there a professor you like and trust? Maybe even someone to simply go with you to the counselor?

I have talked to one of my teachers about my depression because he was really concerned about me and could tell something wasn't right (he's an ex-psychiatrist).

He offered to come with me to the school counsellor but I'm not too sure whether that would help or do the complete opposite - cos I know he won't judge me but I have this stupid idea in my mind that he will.

slkehl

Keep in mind it's their job-they see it ALL the time. There are many many people being treated for mental health problems by doctors and therapists, and I am one of them. They're actually the least likely to judge you because they understand the physiology being unbalanced brain chemicals and how trama in your life can impact that.

misslindseylou

I think that you should go ahead and talk to the school counselor or the doctor. Both of them are there to help you, especially in tough times, and keep it in mind that they've probably seen and heard so many different stories from different people, that they won't judge yours. Plus, the sooner that you talk to them, the sooner things will start to get better. Although, if you still don't feel comfortable going to them, I think you should talk to someone close to you that already knows your situation and what you've been through at the veryleast.

FlaxMilk

If you meet one and feel judged, try another one. Most therapists become therapists because they are good at understanding other peoples' positions, feelings, and decisions. This understanding and the education they receive helps to prevent judgment. I agree with the other person--therapists hear topics from just about every aspect of life.

All that said, remember to take things at your pace. No one, anyone, can force you to say more than you are ready to. You control when the information comes out.

BeautyFromPain

Keep in mind it's their job-they see it ALL the time. There are many many people being treated for mental health problems by doctors and therapists, and I am one of them. They're actually the least likely to judge you because they understand the physiology being unbalanced brain chemicals and how trama in your life can impact that.

Yeah I guess, it's just my anxiety really doesn't help anything

newmein2013

You know that your anxiety is creating false thoughts so keep repeating this in your head. Take the teacher up on his offer & go see the school counselor. When you start thinking about the judging, remind yourself it's not real and you're there to get the help you need & deserve. Start a journal with all of these thoughts & emotions. Each week, browse through it & pick an entry to read. This will help you move forward. Your teacher offered b/c he genuinely cares. Accept his offer graciously. Only you can take that first step. And it's perfectly fine for someone to hold your hand while doing so. You know deep in your heart what you need to do. Let him be your strength right now.

BeautyFromPain

You know that your anxiety is creating false thoughts so keep repeating this in your head. Take the teacher up on his offer & go see the school counselor. When you start thinking about the judging, remind yourself it's not real and you're there to get the help you need & deserve. Start a journal with all of these thoughts & emotions. Each week, browse through it & pick an entry to read. This will help you move forward. Your teacher offered b/c he genuinely cares. Accept his offer graciously. Only you can take that first step. And it's perfectly fine for someone to hold your hand while doing so. You know deep in your heart what you need to do. Let him be your strength right now.

I might try the journal thing thanks.
And maybe the counsellor - I don't know, the ones at school don't tend to be the best.

super_monty

Please find the courage to talk to a doctor.

WinnerVictorious

I had depression from the ages of 13 to 19 and was in recovery for a year, but relapsed just over a month ago.
I know that I need help but I'm too scared to go to a dr.. I feel like they will judge me.
I also do have a school counsellor I could talk to but I don't like talking about myself.. I get really anxious over having to see a counsellor/dr.

Any tips on how to overcome this?

why would they judge you? they deal with this issue every day with many different patients. i can understand your anxiety, but it's their job to help people with issues like these. in fact, rather than judging you, they'll be happy to try to help you. it's what they do. it's why they went into that profession. just go.

darrensurrey

I had depression from the ages of 13 to 19 and was in recovery for a year, but relapsed just over a month ago.
I know that I need help but I'm too scared to go to a dr.. I feel like they will judge me.
I also do have a school counsellor I could talk to but I don't like talking about myself.. I get really anxious over having to see a counsellor/dr.

Any tips on how to overcome this?

They won't judge you! They're professionals, not strangers in the street looking to criticise someone to distract themselves from their own misery.

What you will find is empathy and understanding plus hopefully a path to a solution.

tubbyelmo

It's so hard to take that step to see a professional and discuss what we consider to be a personal failing, however, mental health is talked about so much more freely now, there is no longer so much of a taboo about it. We are our own worst critics, and expect people will think the worst of us, that's our own mind doing that, it's not what the other people are thinking. Those professionals chose that career as they are caring, understanding and won't judge us, we just have to find a way to make an appointment without being terrified, oh, and not cancelling that appointment when it comes near (done that a few times!) If one of your teachers is offering to help, just this once, why not go ahead, do as he suggests, one appointment may be all it takes to make a real difference to how you are feeling about yourself. Add me as a friend, and message me any time, I understand, I don't promise to have the answers but I listen well, I smile in all the right places, and I've been there too.

cmkeene01

I struggled with depression throughout my teenage age years but didn't realize that was what it was until I was in college. It wasn't until my best friend brought it up that I realized that I needed to talk to a doctor. I was so scaired that the doctor would treat me like I was crazy or something. I now wish I would have gone sooner. Sure I have to take medication for it but I rather do that than sink back into that pit.

Dave198lbs

you must be a compulsive liar.

last week you said you were diagnosed as bipolar. (that requires a dr/therapist)

you once claimed to have been on antidpressants.(that requires a dr/therapist)

.....you claim to be this and that all over the place.

your stories are totally inconsistent.

you obviously need help and I hope you get it

AmericanExpat

you must be a compulsive liar.

last week you said you were diagnosed as bipolar. (that requires a dr/therapist)

you once claimed to have been on antidpressants.(that requires a dr/therapist)

.....you claim to be this and that all over the place.

your stories are totally inconsistent.

you obviously need help and I hope you get it

That was a bit harsh.... being mean to someone who is already down is probably not the most constructive thing to do.:huh:

OP - It is very scary to make the first step to go to the dr. but I think it would be wise.

Dave198lbs

you must be a compulsive liar.

last week you said you were diagnosed as bipolar. (that requires a dr/therapist)

you once claimed to have been on antidpressants.(that requires a dr/therapist)

.....you claim to be this and that all over the place.

your stories are totally inconsistent.

you obviously need help and I hope you get it

That was a bit harsh.... being mean to someone who is already down is probably not the most constructive thing to do.:huh:

OP - It is very scary to make the first step to go to the dr. but I think it would be wise.

wasnt meant to be harsh or mean, but seeing the real problem here is important. Look at previous posts by OP. She has had so many different issues and has seen doctors and therapists (at least she has said that) so this post is inconsistent at best.

BeautyFromPain

you must be a compulsive liar.

last week you said you were diagnosed as bipolar. (that requires a dr/therapist)

you once claimed to have been on antidpressants.(that requires a dr/therapist)

.....you claim to be this and that all over the place.

your stories are totally inconsistent.

you obviously need help and I hope you get it

I was told I was bipolar when I was forced into a hospital (didn't have a choice there) - I don't think I actually am bipolar though as I don't ever get those "highs" they talk about only the lows.

And yes I have been on antidepressants. I have been to "professionals" before but have had such nasty experiences with them I don't want to go back cos I'm scared these ones will do the exact same.

BeautyFromPain

you must be a compulsive liar.

last week you said you were diagnosed as bipolar. (that requires a dr/therapist)

you once claimed to have been on antidpressants.(that requires a dr/therapist)

.....you claim to be this and that all over the place.

your stories are totally inconsistent.

you obviously need help and I hope you get it

That was a bit harsh.... being mean to someone who is already down is probably not the most constructive thing to do.:huh:

OP - It is very scary to make the first step to go to the dr. but I think it would be wise.

wasnt meant to be harsh or mean, but seeing the real problem here is important. Look at previous posts by OP. She has had so many different issues and has seen doctors and therapists (at least she has said that) so this post is inconsistent at best.

Yes. I have seen a therapist a few times. I went when I was 16 but was turned off of them and am now scared cos they told my parents everything I told them.
The only other time was when I was forced into a hospital.
Which was also when I was "diagnosed as bipolar" but I don't believe I'm bipolar cos I never get the highs, only the lows.
I went to a GP which told me, "you just need to fix your head up and then you'll be alright" then gave me drugs.. see why I don't necessarily like them?

hbrittingham

Depression is an illness and not something to be ashamed of. It's no different from any other illness that needs a medication to make it better.

BrianSharpe

Depression is an illness and not something to be ashamed of. It's no different from any other illness that needs a medication to make it better.

+10000

Unfortunately there is still a stigma attached to mental health issues which prevents people from seeking treatment. Get help, I seriously doubt any mental health professional will judge you, in fact they would more likely be very supportive of you having the courage to seek treatment.

nikilis

ill do you a favour. if you have bipolar disorder or depression, they are progressive illnesses. without treatment with medication the symptoms worsen, which then needs more medication. if this continues and gets bad enough, it may no longer be able to be controlled by medication, at which point you get committed. i've seen it happen. it sucks.

maybe you are fine, just a bit depressed and need a counsellor. maybe you do have bipolar / clinical depression and do need help. you should seek some, because this is serious. go get it sorted now so your friends dont have to watch you like a slow motion car crash.

dont be afraid of seeking help. be afraid of the possibilities if you don't.

RachelLovesHockey

Please find the courage to talk to a doctor.

THIS! PLEASE!

sarahrbraun

you must be a compulsive liar.

last week you said you were diagnosed as bipolar. (that requires a dr/therapist)

you once claimed to have been on antidpressants.(that requires a dr/therapist)

.....you claim to be this and that all over the place.

your stories are totally inconsistent.

you obviously need help and I hope you get it

That was a bit harsh.... being mean to someone who is already down is probably not the most constructive thing to do.:huh:

OP - It is very scary to make the first step to go to the dr. but I think it would be wise.

wasnt meant to be harsh or mean, but seeing the real problem here is important. Look at previous posts by OP. She has had so many different issues and has seen doctors and therapists (at least she has said that) so this post is inconsistent at best.

Yes. I have seen a therapist a few times. I went when I was 16 but was turned off of them and am now scared cos they told my parents everything I told them.
The only other time was when I was forced into a hospital.
Which was also when I was "diagnosed as bipolar" but I don't believe I'm bipolar cos I never get the highs, only the lows.
I went to a GP which told me, "you just need to fix your head up and then you'll be alright" then gave me drugs.. see why I don't necessarily like them?

There are different types of bipolar. Yours may be more of a depressive type...and if/when you are in a manic phase, you may not be in a position where you can SEE that you are not normal

the GP was right. You DO need to fix your head, and everything will be alright. I was diagnosed as clinically depressed at 18. I am pretty sure I had symptoms going back to age 12/13 years old. I was not a crying sobbing mess. I was more of the body shuts down and I sleep 15 hours a day type. Getting anti-depressants to balance my out of whack brain chemistry made life much easier. I was off meds like 18 months later....but went back on them several times in my 20s. There have been times that I probably *should* have been back on them, but I powered through. I SHOULD be seeing a counselor, but I have an odd insurance situation, so I am not.

david081

There are some very rude people about. Seeing a professional and admitting all is not well shows strength, not weakness. Any help you get should be in confidence. Had some issues myself in the past, but remember the saying 'a problem shared is a problem halved...'

Good luck

nikilis

you must be a compulsive liar.

last week you said you were diagnosed as bipolar. (that requires a dr/therapist)

you once claimed to have been on antidpressants.(that requires a dr/therapist)

.....you claim to be this and that all over the place.

your stories are totally inconsistent.

you obviously need help and I hope you get it

That was a bit harsh.... being mean to someone who is already down is probably not the most constructive thing to do.:huh:

OP - It is very scary to make the first step to go to the dr. but I think it would be wise.

wasnt meant to be harsh or mean, but seeing the real problem here is important. Look at previous posts by OP. She has had so many different issues and has seen doctors and therapists (at least she has said that) so this post is inconsistent at best.

Yes. I have seen a therapist a few times. I went when I was 16 but was turned off of them and am now scared cos they told my parents everything I told them.
The only other time was when I was forced into a hospital.
Which was also when I was "diagnosed as bipolar" but I don't believe I'm bipolar cos I never get the highs, only the lows.
I went to a GP which told me, "you just need to fix your head up and then you'll be alright" then gave me drugs.. see why I don't necessarily like them?

There are different types of bipolar. Yours may be more of a depressive type...and if/when you are in a manic phase, you may not be in a position where you can SEE that you are not normal

the GP was right. You DO need to fix your head, and everything will be alright. I was diagnosed as clinically depressed at 18. I am pretty sure I had symptoms going back to age 12/13 years old. I was not a crying sobbing mess. I was more of the body shuts down and I sleep 15 hours a day type. Getting anti-depressants to balance my out of whack brain chemistry made life much easier. I was off meds like 18 months later....but went back on them several times in my 20s. There have been times that I probably *should* have been back on them, but I powered through. I SHOULD be seeing a counselor, but I have an odd insurance situation, so I am not.

the above is correct. bipolar is very confusing because it has a lot of different states. mixed states are usually the most dangerous. you can have elevated depression where you are very aggressive and explosive but depressed. if you were hospitalised for whatever happened, thats a good sign something seriously happened.

secondly health professionals dont get trained for nothing. you have to take the fact that they said it in the past and say "well, have to keep an open mind" because although you dont think, or dont want to believe, you need to listen to those around you.

go get checked out.

annmedford71

I have seen psych drs. after the birth with all three of my daughters being born. In 2009 I was in such a deep depression I was admitted. Was the best thing. Now I know I have Bipolar 2. They are there to help. Not to judge. They may find something deeper going on. I have been seeing my counsler for three yrs. I was at once a week, now I am at once a month. I feel I would of never had made it through some of my issues without her. There are many hotlines in use today. Its to were your on the phone and you don't even need to give them your name. But please talk to someone. You have friends here. If you would like to add me to friends list just to vent in messages please feel free to. :flowerforyou:

WildAngelJoy

you must be a compulsive liar.

last week you said you were diagnosed as bipolar. (that requires a dr/therapist)

you once claimed to have been on antidpressants.(that requires a dr/therapist)

.....you claim to be this and that all over the place.

your stories are totally inconsistent.

you obviously need help and I hope you get it

I was told I was bipolar when I was forced into a hospital (didn't have a choice there) - I don't think I actually am bipolar though as I don't ever get those "highs" they talk about only the lows.

And yes I have been on antidepressants. I have been to "professionals" before but have had such nasty experiences with them I don't want to go back cos I'm scared these ones will do the exact same.

I have a few thoughts after reading what you posted here. There are bi-polar conditions that do not have mania, some only show as despression or as depression with very minor bouts of mania..maybe you are in the category of bi-polar and only showing depression.

I've been in therapy several times, as a matter of fact I just re-started again after a separation in my marriage. I can totally relate to your experiences with nasty therapists and being afraid to go back. Finding the right therapist that works well with you is very important. Being with the right therapist should be a freeing experience where you can talk about anything and work with that person to a happier, healthier life. Keep in mind that since YOU are seeking out the therapist, if you don't feel comfortable with one you don't have to return...go on to the next. Finding the right one can be frustrating and tiring but it is worth it in the long run...believe me, I' ve been there and done that

I do think you should seek therapy but don't be afraid...you are in control. Once you find a therapist you like, find out for sure if you are bi-polar and, if so, what type. Also find out if you need medications and, if so, what are the best options and then research them for an informed decision. I agree with others that starting with your concerned teacher might be a good start. If you don't like the counselor, maybe your teacher could give referrals in your area? Just a thought.

One last thing...reach out to others. Do you have family, extended family or friends that you can talk to? For the longest time I didn't reach out to others but, when I did, I was surprised how much love & support I got and also what others shared with me in return. Best of luck, feel free to friend me if you'd like. I'm saying prayers for you!

courtneylee31

I have severe anxiety, major depressive disorder, BPD, ADHD, the list goes on . The only way I did it was to just come out clean with it, there really is no other way around it. I got to a point in my life where I'd had enough. It was too much to keep it all in, so the outcome of finally sharing it with a health care provider was easier than I expected. No doctor will judge you. Anxiety/Depression is soo common these days. Just about everyone has experienced it at least one point in their life time. If you truly believe that your doctor will judge you, maybe you need to find a new doctor.

pixtotts

I had depression from the ages of 13 to 19 and was in recovery for a year, but relapsed just over a month ago.
I know that I need help but I'm too scared to go to a dr.. I feel like they will judge me.
I also do have a school counsellor I could talk to but I don't like talking about myself.. I get really anxious over having to see a counsellor/dr.

Any tips on how to overcome this?

you should see someone, anyone, a profession wont judge, wont make assumptions they wont make you do anything, they will listen and they will make suggestions... they wont judge you and its not something that should be judged, it is it always will be but only by uneducated people...

your not alone,
I had depression from when i was 13 until i was 18/19 the lead up to going to uni was when it all settled down.
Im not a good person to be telling you what you should do. because i didnt follow my own advice... The only time i saw someone was when my school made me because of self harm when i was 14 or 15, they wanted to refer me but being under 16 needed parental consent, my mum said no. Im not sure i will ever forgive her for that.

They can help they will help, but they cant help you if you dont want to be... they wont come and find you, all you have to do is make yourself go the once...