by KC Kelly, Ph.D. LMHC

http://DOCintheBiz.com

Diagnosing, Stereotyping, and Minimizing Stigmas of Mental/Emotional Disorders

When describing a certain disorder, I am usually describing it in a textbook fashion (from the DSM) so that lay people and the loved ones of those who have the disorder can understand. I never say that anything is “black and white”, but to the contrary, that everyone is different.

ALL symptoms of ANY disorder are always unique. Not everyone has the same symptoms or behaviors that are described in the latest and greatest DSM. For example,

those with panic attacks, all suffer with different symptoms. Some people have more physical symptoms and some have more mental symptoms. Some people, when suffering with a panic attack think they are going to die, while others pray that they WILL die as the attack is so severe that they just do not know how to cope.

And so, I mean no disrespect when describing a disorder. When I do need to make a description, it is with utmost empathy as possible with the idea that everyone is unique, different, and deserves respect and dignity, no matter what.

Unfortunately, stereotypical behaviors need to be explained to lay people, so they can understand what to possibly look for when a loved one or friend is exhibiting certain behaviors. However, it is very important to know that not everyone has every textbook symptom of a certain disorder. In fact, two people diagnosed with the same disorder, may only share one symptom (of over 15 for example) as described in the DSM. We can say that about any disorder, disease or illness (mental or physical). Unfortunately, there has to be some sort of template for which to base disorders so they can be diagnosed and then treated.

Yes, diagnoses can often be incorrect and I find this most unfortunate. Sometimes a diagnosis is not even necessary to help a client; however insurance companies dictate the need to do so sometimes. Medication is not always necessary either. The bottom line is to find a therapist that is best for you, who understands you, and with whom you feel most comfortable and feel can help you the most. Everyone has different needs.

As a therapist, when a client comes to talk to me, and tells me they have “depression”, for an example, I usually ask him/her to take that word and now that it is out on the table, to throw it straight into the garbage can. We then work with the PERSON and not the label put upon them. Everyone deserves that.

So, when it comes to diagnosing, stereotyping, and minimizing stigmas of mental/emotional disorders, everyone deserves to be looked as a person with great strengths and resources to be the best person they can be; A person with a name and not a label.

Please visit me at http://DOCintheBiz.com for mental health self help links and the opportunity to email me for professional and confidential help with any concerns you may have. You are never alone!

Dr. KC
http://DOCintheBiz.com

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