The Pros + Cons of An Official Diagnosis

One of the most common questions a person can ask themselves in their lives is, “Is it time to seek a clinical diagnosis?” In today’s video I share all the tips and tricks of why you may want to seek and NOT avoid one!

What’s Inside?

  • ✺

    Defining a clinical mental health diagnosis

  • ✺

    Protections for medical record requests

  • ✺

    How being truthful and transparent can help you in the long run

Parts 2 & 3

More Work Arounds

Remember your audience. Not all therapists will understand you on a multicultural level, and not all malingering gigs may work in your favor. Know how to navigate your mental health records with this unofficial recommendation.

Summary- (Short Version)

Recapping part 2 for those who want a straight to the point option. Again, not intended as medical or legal advice, just your friendly student clinician, trauma survivor, misdiagnosed/ late diagnosed Autism Spectrum Disorder, and former military Chaplain recommendations.

✺ Frequently asked questions ✺

  • Q: Do diagnoses stay “permanently” on your record?

    A: No, in fact, you are the sole person responsible for what “stay” on your records. In video 2, I share ways to go about getting your information redacted in case those conditions no longer apply.

  • Q: I don’t trust medication. How do I know it works and is effective?

    A: Check out websites like the Mayo Clinic, FDA.gov, and WebMD.com for testing, medication, and side-effect information. You’ll be surprised at the advances with medicine and the possibility for low dosage, short term usage efficacy but check with your medical / psychiatric provider for more assistance.

  • Q: How do I know what type of counselor I should see?

    A: This one is not so straight-forward and requires you to have some introspective skills, plus the ability to know where to start in your search. Luckily, I got you covered! Here’s a great article I found to get you started 12 Popular Counseling Approaches to Consider