I was wondering, if I tell my therapist that I sometimes hurt myself (not anything major, no scars), but I never have suicidal thoughts, or thoughts of hurting anyone else, would I be at risk of Social Services getting involved and trying to take my child??
Hi Aspi, this is what I know. A therapist has to report neglect and abuse. Would this fall under those? Your behavior has to be causing neglect and abuse to your child. I don't see how this would be the case in your situation. Every state is different, however. Count this as one opinion. Hopefully others will come along and give you more.
If you are not a danger to yourself and to your child, I don't think they will get involved. I think telling your therapist will only help you because they can then help you deal with it in more positive ways. Good luck.
This is a bit of a tough one. I have a Daughter as well. I haven't cut in 3 years and wouldn't think of doing it now that I have my Daughter to think about. I wouldn't even want to risk it and if that means doing extra things to deal with my feelings and having to go through hard times without that quick fix then that is what I will do.
I will say that I have very large, noticeable and nasty scars from before I stopped cutting. While I was in the hospital having my Daughter, I was afraid someone would see them and call Social Services. But, instead, one of my nurses had a 13 year old Daughter who was a cutter and she talked to me about it. She told me that a Doctor or nurse would only call Social Services if they knew that it was something I was still doing and would effect the way I took care of my Daughter.
I don't think I would worry so much telling a therapist, I would be more afraid if someone else found out and called Social Services. This being because when a therapist calls on a patient they have to show substantial evidence of this problem effecting how you take care of your child, whereas any other person would only have to call and tell them they think you are endangering your child.
my therapist is aware of my SI, and as i pose no threat to my son (he's 12) he doesnt feel the need to contact anyone,and said we will work on it ourselves, maybe as my son is older?, i dont know, my scars are visible so my doctor must know too, but has never mentioned it or asked me about it?, i guess in the uk things are more relaxed!?.
