Asked by Occupational Health "What method did you use to try kill yourself*

[Lonely04070]

So I had an occupational health assessment for starting a Learning disability degree (a private company) I have a neurological condition which is well controlled and previous anxiety I had a horrendous childhood and yes I had mental health issues as a teenager which resulted in suicide attempts but I have been well for 10 years!! I work as a HCA in a ward based role ironically for people with MH/LD the occupational health workers there were lovely the only restriction is no night working. The Occupational Health Assessor for this company asked me what method I used to try end my life and wants full copies of my medical records and specialist letters.
I feel this is unnecessary and a letter/report from my GP saying I'm fit to practise is sufficient.
AIBU to complain?

The only thing I can think of is a risk assessment around access to medicine? I’d certainly ask for their reasoning.

@FAQs

The only thing I can think of is a risk assessment around access to medicine? I’d certainly ask for their reasoning.

This. Check the reasoning by all means, OP, but complain? They have a professional responsibility to assess risks and put plans in place.

I have known it to be asked in the context of assessing an overdose of 6 paracetamol or superficial cuts etc and help sought afterwards, ie call for help/ambulance vs being rescued from jumping from a bridge. Having records would provide these details, as well as situational stressors or details of deteriorating illness at the time.

I would maybe phone the Rethink Mental Illness advice line tomorrow there is legal help available on the phone and check with them.

I would think your condiiton qualifies as a disability so there are certain limits on what you are required to disclose. Sure if you don't there may be complications but as far as I can see you can disclose certain things or not.

@FAQs

The only thing I can think of is a risk assessment around access to medicine? I’d certainly ask for their reasoning.

Yes I'd say this. I once worked with a very depressed person who ended up overdosing on the ward supply of opiod medications.

I would think it's because of a previously suicidal person having access to large volumes of medication- for their risk assessment.