Struggling to Get Medical Attention from My Mom
I'm a 13-year-old female and it's been quite some time since my last visit to the doctor. The last time I went was last year when I caught up on numerous vaccinations—ten in total, although it only involved nine injections since one was a combination shot. My grandmother accompanied me to that appointment. Now, with my mom in charge of my care, I don't foresee any doctor's visits happening anytime soon. About a year ago, I noticed an unusual sensation at the back of my neck, which prompted me to ask my mom for a doctor's appointment. She initially agreed to take me, but nothing materialized. To complicate things, I haven't visited the dentist since I was eight years old for some silver dental caps, and I'm currently experiencing some dental issues. My mom mentioned she would schedule appointments for both me and my brother, but I’m starting to doubt her intentions. I’ve needed a physical to participate in sports, and whenever I've inquired about it, my mom has continuously promised to take me for one. With basketball season concluded and the opportunity to play gone, I find myself frustrated. While I could switch to volleyball, my mother still declines to arrange for a physical or take me to see any doctor. Additionally, I’ve been interested in starting therapy, yet she has firmly stated she won’t pursue that option as she doesn't want me discussing "her issues" with anyone else. I'm at a loss for how to persuade her to prioritize my health. What should I do?
Answers (1)
3/30/2025, 5:20:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're feeling frustrated and concerned about your health and the lack of access to medical care. It's important to know that your health and well-being matter, and it's okay to seek help when you need it. Here are some steps you can take:
Main Points:
- Communicate Your Needs: Clearly express your feelings about your health to your mom.
- Seek Support: Reach out to trusted adults who can help advocate for your health.
- Explore Alternatives: Look for ways to get the care you need, including telehealth options or school resources.
Explanation:
Feeling like you can't get the medical care you need can be really tough, especially when you're growing and have specific health concerns, like your neck discomfort and dental issues. It's good that you've recognized the importance of these appointments, and it’s normal to want someone to take action on your behalf.
Your situation is complicated by your mom's hesitance to allow discussions about her feelings, which can make it hard to talk about your own health needs. Remember, it’s essential to prioritize your health and well-being.
Next Steps:
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Have a Conversation: Choose a calm moment to talk to your mom about how these health concerns are affecting you. Explain clearly why visits to the doctor and dentist are important to you.
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Educate and Empower: Gather some information about the importance of regular check-ups and therapy. Share resources or articles that discuss the benefits of these for teenagers. This might help her see your perspective.
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Find Support: Consider talking to another trusted adult, like a family member, teacher, or school counselor. They can help communicate your needs or even assist in setting up appointments.
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Look for Alternatives: If getting to a doctor through your mom remains difficult, check if your school offers health services or if there are local clinics that accept patients without an established appointment. Some telehealth services allow you to speak with a doctor remotely.
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Stay Open to Options: If basketball is not feasible right now, consider your interest in volleyball. If you can, join practices or tryout sessions; participating will keep you engaged and connected to the sport community.
Lastly, remember that your feelings are valid, and seeking support is completely normal. You deserve to have your health prioritized, and taking these steps can help you advocate for yourself more effectively.
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