In some specific situations, the psychiatrist can share information without your permission. Common exceptions to confidentiality are:
- To protect you or the public from serious harm. For example, if you threaten to attempt suicide or seriously harm another person, I may alert people who can reasonably prevent the threat, including, for example, law enforcement or the other person.
- To report abuse or neglect of children, the elderly or people with disabilities. Psychiatrists are typically required under state law to report this type of abuse or neglect. The specific circumstances that trigger the duty to report vary from state to state.
- To respond to an order from a court. This might happen if you’re involved in a legal proceeding and your mental health comes into play.