Okay, so I'm 14 and I think I'm bipolar and I'd like to see a psychiatrist. However, I'm not sure how to tell my parents. I'm afraid to. I used to be a cutter and they suggested I get help, but I refused (this was about ten months ago). How can I tell them?
2006-12-31 12:16:06 · 20 answers · asked by Anonymous in Health ➔ Mental Health
You do not need to tell them why, just tell them you want to go to a psychiatrist. If you end up on meds they'll know, but then you'll have a professional diagnosis to explain to them and they can visit some of your sessions to understand better.
2006-12-31 12:18:47 · answer #1 · answered by Bored Enough To Be Here 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If your parents were understanding then and suggested that you get help, they will probably be elated that you are asking for help now. I'm just guessing but that would be my reaction if I had a 14yo (I'm 32).
How to tell them? Well, I don't know your entire story but just from what you've told us, I would probably tell them that you have thought about getting help and that you would like to do it now. I suggest doing it soon, while you are open to the idea. Not sure if you know but bipolar's cycle with their moods and some time you may not want help. So get it while you can.
If you need help getting your thoughts together try talking to your school counselor or nurse or another adult you trust like a minister, teacher, etc.
I really wish I would have known at 14 what my issues were. You are really lucky in some ways to already know you need help with the difficult stuff. I, rather, was misdiagnosed at 17 and didn't get the right treatment till I was about 28. I'm available on email if you have questions.
2007-01-04 00:21:22 · answer #2 · answered by falcongirl1974 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you have been a cutter, you still are! even if you aren't cutting now. There is no such thing of this going away without help. The pain inside stays there until you DO GET PROFESSIONAL HELP! You were trying to cut the pain OUT so you wouldn't have to deal with it on the outside. You need to GET PROFESSIONAL HELP!
I am bipolar, and you may as well be! But only a doctor can tell! You need to go to your parents, admit that you was wrong in not accepting their help 10 months ago, say you are sorry, and ask for their help again.
Bipolar, is a very treatable illness, and so is cutting, if you want to get healthy, HOWEVER if you prefer your dark side over the "light", then you will remain unhealthy, and never know if you are bipolar or not! TALK TO YOUR PARENTS, and if they don't listen, TALK TO YOUR SCHOOL COUNSELOR, CHURCH ELDER OR SOMETHING! Please do NOT WAIT! It only gets worse with time without the correct help!
I have a niece that is cutting and her mom takes her to a counselor, but she won't listen to her mom and take her medication, and she is getting worse! Please don't go that route!
2006-12-31 20:24:46 · answer #3 · answered by Ikeg 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
When I was 14 there was no "bipolar" diagnosis and I think it is a awful that that label is making its way right down to the troubled children in families when stuff like "cutting" is a genuine cry for help and not 'caused by' some supposed psychiatric condition-- and you likely know what is behind the cutting.... but maybe you have blocked it. By all means, talk to someone who can help you. If your parents are unresponsive, talk to a counselor at school or an adult you admire and trust (maybe the parent of a friend).
2006-12-31 20:22:24 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well honey I am bipolar have been for a few years.The best thing to do is to just tell your parents you want to get help.I waited to long and attempted suicide when I was 16.Also when they ask questions answer them completly honestly.Also if your sleeping habits are messed up let them know that to they will give you a sleep aid.Trileptal is a mood stabilizer also the strongest on the market but it works really well.Remeron is also an anti-depressent and sleep aid.For being a cutter I know where your coming from I was one for 10 years but I've recovered from that and you can to.Dont give up hope.
2006-12-31 20:20:55 · answer #5 · answered by amanda c 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
i would just like to commend you for at least realizing that you need help. Tell your parents immediately. They care about you and will not somehow disown you just because you have been feeling depressed. I don't think your bipolar though. I'm not a psychiatrist but still cutting yourself is a major warning sign that you need a support system in your life now to help you deal with your problems. Good luck to you. I hope you have a fabulous new year and i hope things will go well for you in the future.
2006-12-31 20:21:36 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in a person's mood, energy, and ability to function. Different from the normal ups and downs that everyone goes through, the symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe. They can result in damaged relationships, poor job or school performance. But there is good news: bipolar disorder can be treated, and people with this illness can lead full and productive lives.
2006-12-31 20:20:29 · answer #7 · answered by CM 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Since they suggested you get help at one time it should be OK to talk with them again. Let them know you want to see someone & get evaluated.
You've already spoken about it once. Do it again. If you still feel doubt, talk to your school counselor or nurse or another trusted adult. Your on the right track. Get help. Good Luck!
Also, try this;
Girls and Boys Town National Hotline
Call With any Problem, Anytime
1-800-448-3000 (TDD 1-800-448-1833)
Open 24 hours a day, everyday
http://www.girlsandboystown.org/hotline/index.asp
2006-12-31 20:20:32 · answer #8 · answered by bionicbookworm 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you were a cutter and your parents knew it, then believe me, it won't be as difficult as you think to tell them of your suspicions of being bi-polar. Just tell them you have thought it over since you turned down help before, but now after giving it considerable thought, you feel you do and you want help a.s.a.p. Your parents love you and will support you all the way.
2006-12-31 20:20:52 · answer #9 · answered by Vida 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The best way to do it is quickly. The longer you wait before getting help your symptoms could get worse. My daughter is bipolar and I didn't realize she needed help until she had a nervous break down. I think your parents will be relieved you are finally going to get help.
2006-12-31 20:32:38 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋