Mental health diagnoses often come with a range of challenges, from misdiagnosis to the stigma attached to certain labels. These issues can hinder effective treatment and recovery. Here at RESET, we take a different approach. We believe that everyone deserves to live their full potential beyond emotional distress and mental difficulty. Our expertise combines a unique biopsychological approach which utilises somatic interventions alongside traditional talking therapy to create sustainable, lasting change for our clients. Our aim is to help you make an informed decision on the best path for your unique health needs.
What are mental health diagnoses?
Mental health diagnoses are clinical assessments used to identify and categorise psychological conditions based on observed symptoms and behaviour patterns. The diagnoses are typically carried out by a psychiatrist. It is important to note that this is separate to a GP prescribing medication for mental health concerns such as low mood.
Diagnoses are derived from standardised criteria set forth in manuals such as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD). Developed through extensive research and clinical studies, these tools help mental health professionals communicate about patient care, guide treatment plans, and facilitate understanding of mental health conditions.
However, the complexity and variability of mental health issues often lead to debates about the accuracy and implications of these diagnostic labels. The manuals are continuously changing based on contemporary research, and the use of ‘cut-off’ scores in the diagnostic criteria can mean some people slip through the cracks despite having legitimate challenges.
What are diagnoses useful for?
Mental health diagnoses can be helpful for several reasons.
Receiving tailored support. They enable individuals to receive condition-specific support, such as tailored therapy or specialised programs. For example, a diagnosis of depression might lead to cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), while an eating disorder could warrant dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT).
Enabling self-understanding. Diagnoses also help individuals understand themselves better, providing validation for their experiences and reducing feelings of isolation.
Prescription of medication. Accurate diagnoses are crucial for prescribing the correct mental health medication, ensuring that patients receive the most effective treatment for their condition. For instance, someone diagnosed with bipolar disorder may require mood stabilisers, whereas someone with ADHD might benefit from stimulant medications.
The downsides of getting diagnosed
While a mental health diagnosis might be needed for effective treatment of certain conditions, it can also have substantial downsides.
Incorrect diagnoses and differing opinions among psychiatrists can lead to inappropriate or ineffective treatment plans, which can be a distressing experience.
The stigma associated with mental health conditions often exacerbates social isolation and discrimination and can deter individuals from seeking help. Labels like “disability” can make people feel limited and stuck, potentially overshadowing the possibility of significant progress through therapy and personal effort.
Accessing a diagnosis in the first place can be challenging due to long waiting lists in the public sector and high costs in the private sector.
Additionally, medications prescribed for mental health conditions are not always effective and can have adverse side effects. In some cases, it might take many weeks or months to find a medication which works for you, as we all respond differently to the medications.
Do I need a diagnosis to work on myself?
Ultimately, in most cases you don’t need a diagnosis in order to see major improvements through treatments like therapy. An individual with lower back pain may not need to understand the exact diagnosis but can make improvements through physio, exercise etc. Our mental health is very similar. The challenges we struggle with persist regardless of the label we assign them. The label is also not a cure, and a diagnosis is typically followed by a range of treatment recommendations such as therapy.
If you are struggling with your mental health, it may be worth exploring the different options available to you which can improve your day-to-day experience, such as:
- Therapy
- Self-help tools/books
- Support groups
- Meditation
- Lifestyle changes such as exercise and nutrition
How do I figure out what’s right for me?
Mental health diagnoses are a tool used by professionals to help tailor care and treatment towards an individual. However, each diagnosis can come with its own set of unique challenges, which may hinder progress. Only you can decide what is best for yourself, but we do recommend that you familiarise yourself with the different options available to you so that you can make an informed choice.
In this article, you learned about the complexities of mental health diagnoses, their benefits, and their downsides, from misdiagnosis and stigma to the implications of labels like “disability.” A great way to create sustainable change is to have a holistic approach to wellbeing, which is what is offered at the RESET Health Group. We combine a biopsychological approach with traditional therapies to help empower individuals, whether they have a diagnosis or not. If you’re interested in learning more about your wellbeing journey, book an introductory call with one of our therapy team today!
