If you were to tell your therapist or psychiatrist that you have homicidal thoughts, they would take your disclosure very seriously and respond in a professional and ethical manner. Here's what typically happens in such a situation:
Assessment of Immediate Safety: The therapist or psychiatrist's first priority is to ensure your immediate safety and the safety of others. They will ask you questions to assess the level of risk and whether you have any specific plans or intentions to harm yourself or others.
Confidentiality and Reporting Obligations: Therapists and psychiatrists are bound by ethical guidelines and laws regarding confidentiality. However, if they believe there is a credible and imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, they are mandated to take appropriate steps to protect individuals involved. This may include breaching confidentiality to inform relevant authorities or family members to ensure safety.
Exploration and Understanding: The therapist will explore the nature and context of your homicidal thoughts to understand the underlying factors contributing to them. They may ask about triggers, stressors, past experiences, and your emotional state.
Safety Plan: Depending on the level of risk, the therapist may work with you to develop a safety plan. This plan may involve identifying coping strategies, support systems, and emergency contacts to use in moments of distress.
Risk Assessment and Intervention: If the therapist determines that you are at significant risk of acting on your thoughts, they may recommend hospitalization or involve crisis services to ensure your safety.
Treatment Planning: Based on the assessment, the therapist will tailor a treatment plan to address your specific needs. This may involve ongoing therapy, medication management (if necessary), and additional interventions to address the underlying issues contributing to the homicidal thoughts.
Collaboration and Support: The therapist may collaborate with other mental health professionals or medical providers to provide comprehensive care. They may also involve family members or support networks to create a supportive environment for your recovery.
It's important to remember that sharing homicidal thoughts with a mental health professional is essential and courageous. They are trained to handle such disclosures in a responsible and compassionate manner. Their primary goal is to ensure your safety, provide appropriate care, and support your journey towards healing and well-being. If you ever experience homicidal thoughts or any other intense emotions, it's crucial to reach out to a mental health professional immediately or seek emergency assistance if needed.