Imagine trying to describe something you can’t see. Sounds difficult, right? Diagnosing mental illness can be the same way. Illnesses based on brain function may have few, if any, physical symptoms, and the symptoms that do appear may not be easily measured. As such, mental health diagnoses can vary fairly wildly based on the perspective and experience of the healthcare provider. It’s for this reason that getting a second opinion on a mental health diagnosis is strongly recommended.
The case for seeking a second opinion on mental health diagnoses
Getting a second opinion is almost always recommended in mental health treatment because of the complexity and variability of symptoms, and how common it is for these symptoms to overlap with those of other disorders. For instance, symptoms of depression and anxiety can appear similar, yet they require different approaches and medications to treat. As life-changing as a correct mental health diagnosis can be, a misdiagnosis can be devastating.
The consequences of a misdiagnosed mental illness can lead to self-medicating, a higher likelihood of substance abuse, more frequent doctor visits, social isolation, and impaired performance at work or school. Additionally, incorrect treatment can do more harm than good and potentially exacerbate the illness
Unfortunately, mental health misdiagnoses happen quite often, which can involve the incorrect labeling of a condition or failing to identify a condition altogether. One study sought to quantify just how often this happened and the results were startling. After evaluating 840 patients for a range of conditions, ranging from the mild and commonplace to those that are severe and less common, the research found that detection rates ranged from 0.5% to 50% — less than half of mental illness diagnoses were identified.
The rate in which mental illnesses went unidentified varied by the condition:
- Major depressive disorders: 65.9%,
- Generalized anxiety disorder 71%
- Panic disorder: 85.8%
- Bipolar disorders: 92.7%
- Social anxiety disorder: 97.8%
Why are misdiagnoses so commonplace?
One major culprit, identified in the same study, was simply that physicians were not making evaluations based on the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). Other contributing factors:
- A lack of training by the physician or an overemphasis on physical symptoms
- The limited duration of appointments. The diagnostic evaluations for mental illness can take a while, which isn’t suitable for a short doctor’s visit.
- Poor rapport with the patient
How to seek a second opinion
Discussing the need for a second opinion can be a sensitive topic, especially if we have developed a relationship with our current mental health professional. However, it is important to remember that seeking a second opinion is a common and accepted practice.
Start by gathering all relevant medical records, including previous diagnoses, treatment plans, and any notes or observations you have made about your symptoms and experiences. Having this information readily available can help the new mental health professional gain a comprehensive understanding of your situation. If you feel comfortable enough with your primary physician, it can be beneficial to ask about any specifics they would recommend you to consult another professional about.
Next, research potential mental health professionals who specialize in your area of concern. Consider factors such as their qualifications, areas of expertise, and patient reviews. It may also be beneficial to look for professionals who offer a fresh perspective or use different therapeutic approaches than your current provider. This can provide you with a broader range of insights and options for your treatment.
Some may require a referral from your current provider, while others may allow you to schedule an appointment directly. If a referral is required and you’re concerned about your primary physician knowing that you’re seeking a second opinion, transparency can foster understanding and cooperation. Potential reasons why you might be seeking a second opinion for a mental health diagnosis may include:
- Wanting more clarity on the diagnosis
- Exploring different treatment options
- Wanting reassurance
Ultimately, your health and well-being are the top priority, and no medical professional should ever seek to interfere with that pursuit.
Not sure if your mental health diagnosis is correct?
If you have been diligently adhering to your treatment, whether it is medication, therapy, or lifestyle changes, and have not noticed significant improvement, it may be time to reassess the original mental health diagnosis. A second opinion can help determine if there is another underlying condition that requires different treatment, providing you with clarity, reassurance, and peace of mind. Consult a mental health professional near you to explore alternative treatment options or confirm a previous diagnosis.