I have something mentally wrong with me, and I aknowledge this. I dont know what exactly, but I know I serverly need help. I asked my mom if I could go to therapy, and she's fine with that, but I think I need more than that, like maybe being commited for a while. I cant just say 'Hey mom, I think I need to be committed to the loony bin for a while, is that cool?' She really doesnt see what goes on with me, i usualy just keep to myself while I'm at home. I really think I need more than just therapy, and possibly anti depressants (I havent gone to therapy yet, so I dont know what would go on) I really think it would help for me to go to an institution for a while. How do I approach this though?
thinktoto answered Sunday January 23 2005, 4:58 pm: Phew, ok tough subject.
I knew from at least age 14 that there was something wrong with me. I had no idea how to tell my mother until one day i just bit the bullet and said "mom, I think I should see a psychiatrist." Eventually I got an appointment with one and have been going for more than five years. At first I was diagnosed with clinical depression, but none of the meds seemed to work for more than 3 months. About two years ago I got my current diagnosis, Bipolar disorder.
Some things you need to know:
*A therapist can only talk with you; you'll need a psychiatrist if you'll be taking medication (which is not as scary as it sounds and makes a world of difference)
*You need to take responsibility for this yourself. Don't expect to be told what to do. You need to do as much research as possible and take the lead when it comes to therapists/psychiatrists. Tell them if you're doubtful of something, if you disagree, or if something doesn't sound right.
*Always always always be as honest as possible with your therapist. It should be a dialogue, not just someone preaching at you. Tell the truth, don't hide things, and if you're shy push yourself to tell them anyway. Sometimes they can make it easier for you by asking questions from a list (for diagnosis). The more truthful you are, the sooner you'll get an accurate diagnosis, the sooner you'll get help.
*Find some peer support from people with the same diagnosis. I learned so much from a bipolar chat room - success stories, how to deal, what to do about meds and countless other things.
*Research research research. Find books, online articles (about.com is excellent), and read about exactly what's going on.
*Admission to hospital is usually restricted to times when you feel that you're going to hurt yourself or someone else. If you feel this way, go to the hospital and check in. You don't need anyone's permission and they can't send you away. They can even call your mother for you, as well as your therapist.
I'm now 21 and I'm stable for the first time in years. Seeking help was the best thing I could have done. I found the right medication (btw you need to be persistent with medications, the right one is rarely the one you first try) and I'm feeling great. It can be (and already is by the sounds of it) a very rough time, but remember that it will get better eventually. Depression is very treatable, and you can feel 100% normal no matter how severe it is now.
AKSherma answered Sunday January 23 2005, 12:18 pm: It shows a lot of maturity that you know that you need to get help. There are only a few typical "institutions" left, and most psych in-patient is done at the hospital. The only times when someone really is put into the hospital is a suicide attempt, any serious threat that they may hurt themselves or others, and for those that can't take care of yourself.
It sounds like your mom is very supportive though, I know my mom still has no idea of my past history. It sounds like you have Major Depression and anti-depressants will help, however, they will take some time before they work (4-6 weeks). I don't know what your story is, but you may be able to be seen quicker if you feel that you need help right away (In major hospitals they have something called PES (Psychiatric Emergency Services). Other than that, I'd wait for your appointment with your therapist (if its a psychiatrist he/she can prescribe meds, if it's a psychologist he/she won't be able to.)
MeganKristine answered Sunday January 23 2005, 12:14 pm: Go to therapy, and tell the therapist what you're tlling us. That you think an insitution would help you. She/he could possibly convince your mom to send you to one. Remember it is hard for parents to do this. The best of luck to you.
Wenzie answered Sunday January 23 2005, 12:05 pm: You dont have to go to an institution, dont worry about it.It sounds like you have a depression, but not one that goes away after like a day.Its called prolonged depression i think, i have the exact same thing and think im messed in the head too lol, and i havent told my parents about it.But your taking the good route, go to the sessions and talk to them about the way you feel, and everything and im sure they can help you.Good Luck! [ Wenzie's advice column | Ask Wenzie A Question ]
Sherry answered Sunday January 23 2005, 12:04 pm: Well i think you should go into therapy for a while and see if that works. You dont have to talk to your mom about it first, you can talk to your therapist about it. Your therapist might know if thats right for you and if it is, he/she can talk to your mom. I really feel therapy should be the first step and you can explain all of it to your therapist. Hope I helped, good luck! [ Sherry's advice column | Ask Sherry A Question ]
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