Mental Health And Your Diagnosis

By Jemima Kankam, MD

Mental illness continues to be misunderstood and far too often untreated. Many of the commonly treated mental illnesses have their onset in adolescence but are missed because some of the socially objectionable behaviors they induce are explained away as a normal “phase.”
Untreated, the illnesses can become severe, may affect academics, and contribute to experimentation with drugs. Worse yet, it may result in loss of life. Suicide, the worst complication of depressive illness is the no. 2 cause of death in adolescents ages 15-24.
One factor contributing to the ravages of untreated mental illness is incorrect diagnosis and therefore treatment. There is as yet no single bloodwork, xray, or other lab or even psychological test that by itself makes a diagnosis of any mental illness. The only way to make a diagnosis is through information about changes in one's usual pattern of feeling, thinking, and physical habits.
Many only tell their primary care doctors about their physical complaints, leaving out changes in their thinking and feelings. In addition, knowing that one has had similar problems in the past and/or family history of mental illness may make a difference in the kind of diagnosis and associated treatment. Unfortunately, if their doctors do not have this information, a different conclusion may be reached about diagnosing and exploring their complaints or issues.Adequate preparation can help patients advocate for themselves. If patients give information about these changes, it may go a long way in helping their doctor obtain an accurate diagnosis and referral if needed, and consequently aids in patients receiving appropriate treatment.