What to say to relatives when getting treatment for depression and anxiety
Hi I have been trying to get out more and change my life.My therapist is trying to get me into a outpatient program at a local hospital that provides group therapy,advice,and support for people with anxiety and depression.The program is five days per week 6 hours per dayand runs for four weeks.I asked to try and get into this program which must get a refferal from your therapist.She has no problem doing this and I feel it would be a good thing for me and a big step.I feel some anxiety about it but feel I must work through it.My question is what should I tell my close family members about this if anything.My mother has not always been supportive in the past.I am wondering if I should tell my family members about my treatment?The only one I live with is my brother. I feel anxious about this subject.I also know that this is a illness and I should not feel ashamed about it.My family history is of no communication or support for getting help.Any ideas or if you have a experience with this to share would be greatly appreciated.Thankyou for your help
Hello, Hope. I'm glad you were able to get into this program and I understand your anxiety about telling your family about it. If telling the truth would only result in a negative outcome, I would tell them, if you have to tell them anything, that you're taking an intensive class in something (whatever sounds good) and let it go at that. I've done that many times and it usually works and nobody asks any more questions. I know we shouldn't be ashamed, but the reality is that a lot of people are ignorant about this stuff and feel threatened by it and if you don't want to deal with the fallout, I wouldn't be totally truthful, it's not worth it. Usually, the truth will set you free, so they say, but sometimes not but that's not because of you, it's because of other people's lack of understanding. Good luck with it, hope you get a lot out of it - let us know how it goes.
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Hope
Wednesday, October 21, 2009 at 09:50 AM
Dear Judy thankyou for the reply.I would love to be able to tell the truth about the 10 day outpatient program I am entering.But due to the negative reactions I have received in the past I will tell them I am taking a 10 day course on whatever makes sence.I want to go into this with a positive attitude.When I complete the course I think I will be stronger and not be effected as much with negative thought.I am excited and nervous about the program but feel it is a big step for me.I will be getting out and meeting people with common issues and also doing something good for myself.Thankyou for your help.