Depression history at the London medical

[UrsulaP 0]

Hello,

I'll be having a medical at the London embassy.

A few years ago I was diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and I became depressed. (vague thoughts of suicide, but no self-harm, or threats to myself or others). For several months I was treated with Citalopram antidepressants for both these things. I've been off the antidepressants and problem free for well over a year.

Will I be asked about depression at the medical? If I'm asked about it, what is likely to happen? Are they likely to consult my doctor and request my records? Will there be a delay?

thanks!

Edited November 14, 2006 by UrsulaP

[YuAndDan 153]

It is recommended to not withhold any info, if they ask, give them a straight answer, and explanation.

[ceriserose 1]

Depression is quite common and being treated and then off meds shouldn't be a warning sign to them.

At my medical in Canada I disclosed when and for how long I'd been on anti-depressants, along with the reason I was diagnosed. At that time I'd been med-free for almost a year. I don't even think he made notation of it.

There shouldn't be any harm in letting them know...after all you'd have been under a doctor's care for the meds and for coming off of them.

Best of luck on your journey.

[UrsulaP 0]

I was pretty alarmed by this thread you see

http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=28634

although I've never seen a psychiatrist so maybe it doesn't apply.

Hmm. Do I need a doctor's letter for my past depression, or is it only for people currently being treated?

[mRx 16]

I believe you have some legal rights as to what information is disclosed by your doctor about you. You have a right to know what info is being given out about you. So just look at your records and see if anything is mentioned about depression.

Edited November 14, 2006 by matt85

[Stalar 0]

I had the same problem

I was 17 when I had depression I wasn't treated with any anti deppressants but this is what the London Doctor will require

If you saw a psychiatrist he will prob want the discharge notification from that psychiatrist and then he may want you to go and get a psychiatric evaluation done.

I had one done and it cost me the pricey sum of £240 becuase I had to go private as its not covered under the NHS.

So good luck on your medical it's not as bad as you may think and you would be better declaring it becuase if they find out at a later date you were lying it could be worse for you.

[Tim and Bethanie 1]

I was pretty alarmed by this thread you see

http://www.visajourney.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=28634

although I've never seen a psychiatrist so maybe it doesn't apply.

Hmm. Do I need a doctor's letter for my past depression, or is it only for people currently being treated?

This couples case was approved and I believe he is probably in the states by now. There is nothing to be worried about. You could get a letter from the treating physician, just to cover yourself and not put a delay in your journey if they do decide they need a statement. Only offer it if they ask for it of course.