Mental help affecting residence or citizenship?

Without going into too much detail, my doctor has decided that, due to the depression I have been experiencing and my inability to get over it or to take pills because of side effects, he wants me to see a psychiatrist.  My BIL is trying to convince me that if I do, it might affect my citizenship application in the future and might even get me kicked out of the country. I don't believe it but would feel so much better if someone could dispute this. I am currently here on ILR and not eligible for citizenship for another three years.  Is it possible to tarnish my "good character" requirement if I need mental help?

Here's the 'Good Character Requirement' and it mentions nothing about mental health services -- only criminal activity, terrorism & financial problems.

Hate to say it but I think your BIL is a bit misguided.

That's what I thought as well, but it's nice to hear someone else say it.  Thanks for answering so quickly!

You're welcome...glad I could help. 

Getting help for depression, as Weby says, is not even remotely on the list. I suppose if you had a history of serious mental problems that caused you to be noticed by social services or more likely the police, there might be questions. But even then I kind of doubt it.

I suspect your BIL is victim of the bias against people getting mental health help. He may not believe it himself, but he may believe lots of people see it as a sign of weakness or worse.

Lisa, since you have recently been bereaved, I would think that it would be normal for you to be depressed and need to see a psychiatrist.

I can't imagine that anyone would see that as a problem

Lisa, since you have recently been bereaved, I would think that it would be normal for you to be depressed and need to see a psychiatrist.

I can't imagine that anyone would see that as a problem

I totally agree.  Don't hesitate to start seeing a psychiatrist / therapist--you need support during this difficult time.

I would assume that taking care of your mental health IS a sign of good character!

Listen to WebbyJ!

You guys are all great!     Thanks so much.

Everyone here is talking sense.

You need support. You're recently bereaved. Pretty normal I'd say. Look after yourself, Lisa! ((Hugs))