I just went to the Polyclinic for Prozac, but the doc told me she could not provide it for me because only psychiatrist do it.
Well, I did get my prozac from my GP.
Anyway, I saw her writing my symptoms as Depressive Disorder. Does that mean I am going to have a record of being depressed?
And my Sis works in one of the hospitals in Singapore, and as a staff nurse, she is able to view my records if need be!
I do not want my family to know about this, and if they do, oh well...I do not know what to say.
Pls comment on this. What I am afraid of is, should there be a record of being depressed, does that mean I have to declare it whenever I search for a job?
Arrgh, it is making me worry.
I appreciate your comments on this. Thanks a lot yah.
Hi,
It's good that your GP has been able to treat you for depression - some of the GPs have undergone continuing education in management of depression, and are therefore able to provide treatment for patients presenting to them.
Rest assured that your notes will be handled with confidentiality, and will not be accessible for viewing by your sister. Only you yourself can disclose your condition to others, as doctors have a duty to respect every patient's right to confidentiality. I would strongly encourage you to discuss this issue further with your doctor to allay your concerns.
You may also want to consider letting one of your closer family members know, so you may have some support. If you are concerned there may be some negative reactions, the doctor can help to explain the condition to your relative, especially to reassure that there is nothing shameful about having depression - it is not that you are mad or bad, but that you are for the moment under much strain, and need medical attention.
Take care, and take heart.
Regards,
Depnet