Hi RedBarchette,

I think we share a similar point of view - our medications (and for me my diagnosis) has absolutely nothing to do with anyone but my treating mental health practitioner(s).

I am sorry to hear that you have not seen anyone with regards to your mental health because of this - but I do understand the point that you make and your reasons for choosing to do this.

If my medications were disclosed to a 3rd party other than my prescriber, I'd feel somewhat violated too. It's a pity for the circumstances under which this occured for you. The only support that I can offer in this regard is that the information that the police may have obtained about your medication is highly confidential and was unfortunately discovered as part of the investigation. I can understand that this would be somewhat disappointing.

I was involved in a situation with police [under COMPLETELY different circumstances; not for any illegal activity or something like that; which I can't discuss as it may be triggering] who had to get the full list of my prescribed medications from my husband before I was whisked away in an ambulance. But, honestly, I don't think about it that much. Think of it this way, they're here to help us. People who enter the police force have noble intentions. They're protectors of us and protectors of the community. Yes, it is true that the police force here in Victoria have a list of my prescribed medications AND mental health diagnosis incase they are called out for an emergency situation again. But I'd rather them know in case I'm not able to tell them. They're only here to look after me. They are bound by confidentiality in situations like this too, and the information they hold on record wouldn't be disclosed to a 3rd party as I wasn't involved in any kind of illegal activity and have no criminal record.

This is just my opinion only.

It's probably not so hot shot for me to admit that I do not disclose my diagnosis when applying for jobs either. It's just no one's business but mine. And I don't need the stigma attached to me because of my diagnosis (stigma, from the ignorant, who know nothing about me or have any understanding of my mental health issues).

The only other thing that I wanted to add is this.

I can't, because of the police incident up and change all of my meds because I am stable now. I'm kind of looking out for my long term best interests. I've been through my fair share of meds, as some have worked, some have not worked. And I just feel that if I had to have a complete overhaul it would rock the boat and then I'll start to have mental health issues that I don't currently have.

Whichever way you decide to go, just know that we are here to support you.

Take care of yourself.