Advice for Talking to Doctors About Self-Harm Scars

Sometimes it can depend on how old you are. When I was under 18 (probs 14ish) and had a physical/labs my doctor was required to tell my mom about it. In fact, that is how she found out the first time. If you are over 18, they aren't required to say anything to anyone but will document it in your chart. But just saying you have a history of self-harm and it's something you're working on/getting help for (whichever is your case) and that you’re not suicidal (if you're not) works for some doctors. Generally, they’re starting to ask questions about depression at appts now and if you answer honestly, I think certain doctors may understand a little bit more. But not all. Like someone else said, if you want help, let them discover or the simple admission of it is good too. Honestly, some doctors if you're over 18 won't even address it bc it’s awkward for them too. I hope you're okay. Please reach out to your doc if you need help. And here if you need support. Good luck.

Not everyone can do this, but if you tell them before the exam, like almost the first words you say when your in the room. I think it takes the anxiety off you guessing when or if they will bring it up. And I think it will also take some pressure off them to, it’s just as uncomfortable for a doctor to ask about scars as it is for you to be asked. I found when I did this with my eating disorder and other mental health it made appointments much easier.