I am, in nature, a very negative person. Granted, that's not always a bad thing. I believe I have severe/clinical depression, however, and I have been dealing with this for at least 4 or 5 years. I have difficulty sleeping, and typically require the use of a sleeping aid. I essentially hate my life (for no reason), I have low self-esteem on a constant basis, and I have a lot of conflicting feelings. There's plenty more, but the bottom line is that I am tired of dealing with it and would like to find some help.
The problem, however, is that I am an untrusting person. I realize certain "safety lines" must be crossed. But I am worried that the help I receive may, in fact, limit my future. For example, should I need the use of anti-depressants; if I should wish to study a language abroad (which I plan to do), reviewing my medical history could show that I suffer from depression and take anti-depressants, thus preventing or at the very least post-poning my plans for my future.
This is just one example, but I believe there are other opportunities that I may miss if I am put on anti-depressants due to my medical history. This is so frustrating-I am denied specific opportunities because I require a medicine to remain mentally stable!
Also, I'd like to see a psychologist "anonymously". In other words, in person but without having to give them my real name, phone number, etc. Is this possible, or do all psychologists have to collect such information? Thanks for any help!
The problem, however, is that I am an untrusting person. I realize certain "safety lines" must be crossed. But I am worried that the help I receive may, in fact, limit my future. For example, should I need the use of anti-depressants; if I should wish to study a language abroad (which I plan to do), reviewing my medical history could show that I suffer from depression and take anti-depressants, thus preventing or at the very least post-poning my plans for my future.
This is just one example, but I believe there are other opportunities that I may miss if I am put on anti-depressants due to my medical history. This is so frustrating-I am denied specific opportunities because I require a medicine to remain mentally stable!
Also, I'd like to see a psychologist "anonymously". In other words, in person but without having to give them my real name, phone number, etc. Is this possible, or do all psychologists have to collect such information? Thanks for any help!
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Answers
Shin, I would urge you to see a psychologist. If you pay cash, there is no reason for them to need your data, imo. You will still have to build up some trust of the doctor though. ;)
You don't have to take medication to get well. In fact, a recent study shows that they are not effective except for seriously depressed patients who believe they will help. After 6 months of therapy, you will be as well off as if you took an antidepressant that whole time... or better off!
I would suggest a psychologist who engages in CBT, though. Cognitve behavior therapy helps you change your thinking so that you can become a happier person. There are ten common cognitive distortions (such as black and white thinking) and these are sticky posted in the Psychotherapy Forum at www.psychcentral.com You can work on those on your own too!
Good wishes on your travel!
drjean
Hi there :)
As Jean mentioned, it would be important for you to see a psychologist.
If you see a psychologist, they will have you sign a letter of informed consent, which means that they cannot discuss your issues or anything without your permission.
For each person that you have that you want them to see your information, you have to sign an informed consent for them.
Jean also has some good thoughts about CBT and also the great idea that you don't have to take medication. Therapy itself is good, a lot of the time alone.
Best,
Clyde
I realize this will make me seem extremely close-minded, but I do not believe that therapy will help me significantly. I'm more than willing to give it a try, but ultimatley I believe that I will be put on anti-depressants if I were to go. I don't believe that I hold any of thse common cognitive distortions.
Let's face it. I have been privileged with two loving parents for my childhood, I have plenty of friends, and a good high school education. Even I believe that I have plenty of potential and will have lots of success in my life. I believe that others respect me, and I know plenty of people look up to me in a variety of ways. Even acknowledging all of this, I still have low self-esteem. I am unhappy a majority of the time.
This is why I asked about anti-depressants. I don't believe that I suffer from a cognitive distortion and because of this I believe that were I to see a therapist, I would end up on anti-depressants.
My questions was more or less theoretical. Even if I can escape my depression through a therapist, if there is a possibility that I am going to be put on anti-depressants, then I consider this a serious problem. Perhaps it would be better if I asked:
Is there any protection I have against anti-depressants in regards to the opportunities it limits?
Psychologists do not (except for a few in a trial program) prescribe medications. They can't force you to take them. You always have the final say on what you do, who you see, and whether you take medication or not.
You said you have ongoing low self esteem. What is the reason for this? Usually it's because you are telling yourself things that just aren't true. Whether those things you think/say to yourself are about yourself ("I never do anything right.") or about the world you are in, such as seeing things in black and white... well those are cognitive distortions. ;)
However, there are many other modalities for therapy and working through to find what is making you unhappy and how to regain happiness.
drjean