Rayne Fisher-Quann pens a thoughtful response to a reader who found themselves preoccupied with receiving a diagnosis from their psychiatrist as an “out” for feelings of burn out and overwhelming social expectations.
As a licensed therapist, I see this all the time. The DSM was created in order to collect statistical information and then adopted by insurance companies who use it to approve services for their members. It does very little for treatment although some might disagree and say it informs the direction of treatment. Lamenting over the need for a diagnosis is a distraction from allowing yourself to actually feel and release the emotions necessary for healing. It keeps the person in the mode of intellectualizing rather than emoting.
As someone who’s been diagnosed with a multitude of things. No. It’s very helpful to have an explanation to get to a point of understanding. In my opinion, because otherwise you’re just in limbo. With a diagnosis you can treat the “issue”. You can become educated and find better ways of managing it. Sending you Good vibes! 💗
Thank you for writing this! I am currently also writing about the need to be diagnosed and how it illustrates how badly we need to be seen, acknowledged and loved in this world. I feel like if we were able to behave in ways we just feel inclined to, then it would be easier to not seek „medical“ validation. Idk …
Mental health is tricky. There can be a fine line between “normal” emotions and behavior and those that cross over into a medical diagnosis. And we can have both types at the same time or both during different times in our lives. If your emotions and behaviors are negatively impacting your relationships, work, social, or recreational activities then it is a good idea to seek professional help.
As a licensed therapist, I see this all the time. The DSM was created in order to collect statistical information and then adopted by insurance companies who use it to approve services for their members. It does very little for treatment although some might disagree and say it informs the direction of treatment. Lamenting over the need for a diagnosis is a distraction from allowing yourself to actually feel and release the emotions necessary for healing. It keeps the person in the mode of intellectualizing rather than emoting.
Love this, especially the last 2 statements! Thank you for sharing your perspective.
I appreciate the question and the insight provided.
As someone who’s been diagnosed with a multitude of things. No. It’s very helpful to have an explanation to get to a point of understanding. In my opinion, because otherwise you’re just in limbo. With a diagnosis you can treat the “issue”. You can become educated and find better ways of managing it. Sending you Good vibes! 💗
Thank you for writing this! I am currently also writing about the need to be diagnosed and how it illustrates how badly we need to be seen, acknowledged and loved in this world. I feel like if we were able to behave in ways we just feel inclined to, then it would be easier to not seek „medical“ validation. Idk …
Mental health is tricky. There can be a fine line between “normal” emotions and behavior and those that cross over into a medical diagnosis. And we can have both types at the same time or both during different times in our lives. If your emotions and behaviors are negatively impacting your relationships, work, social, or recreational activities then it is a good idea to seek professional help.