Social services & mental health difficulties

[upsidedownfrown]

Slightly heated debate with friend. A mutual friend of ours has confided in us that she generally feels low, a lot of anxiety signs, etc. She won't speak to gp for fear of social services getting involved. She has a 6yo and 8yo.

After coffee, the friend I had the 'debate' with was really cross with me for suggesting speaking to gp!

I cannot imagine social services getting involved with someone who is a wonderful, caring mum just because she asks for help with mental health issues.

I'm right aren't I? I haven't given terrible advice to a good friend?

You’re absolutely right.
I have ongoing mental health problems, including multiple hospital admissions and social services have never been involved.

SS really wouldn’t get involved at all, unless the children were at risk. Hundreds of people seek help every day. Reassure your friend.

I have ptsd plus a few other mental health issues and no one has ever referred me to SS (even though I tried to leave Ds in NICU because I thought he wasn't a baby). I was concerned because everything came to ahead after the birth of Ds but it just hasn't been an issue. I'm currently undergoing psychotherapy whilst pregnant and again no one has any concerns.

Thanks both of you. I'm gonna show her these replies when I see her at the weekend. I won't pressure her into seeing anyone but think it's important that she knows the option is there. Also found that you can self refer to the depression and anxiety team in my area so will let her know and be there to.support whatever she decides.

Dinosaur it’s reassuring to read your post. I’m having therapy for PTSD at the moment and I think it’s going to take a looooong time for me to be ‘fixed’ I guess. We are ttc#3 and I was worried that having therapy would be frowned upon and warrant a social service referral . I’m no risk to my kids, take lots of active steps to stay well and see therapy as a form of self care