Click image for more information:
DIAGNOSES* conveniently describe clusters of symptoms. Insurance companies and medical research require them. Diagnoses are helpful in guiding treatment.
But, there are problems. How high a blood pressure is "hypertension?" Is memory loss part of "natural aging" or a disease? How much anxiety is "generalized anxiety disorder." These guidelines constantly change. Furthermore, common problems, such as chronic "stress," do not correspond to any particular psychiatric diagnosis.**
Apart from "labels" a better approach would look at:
1 - Presenting problems (self-observed and observed by others)
2 - Degree of discomfort - variation over time and circumstances
3 - Social dynamics - how others affect you and you affect them
3 - Strengths and "weaknesses"
including strategies that have worked in the past
4 - Identified areas for change
*Note: Dr. Kottler participated in the field trials which were used to troubleshoot the DSM IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 4th Ed-Revised) regarding measures of validity and reliability. A DSM V is in the works but not yet published. It will emphasize that people fall within a spectrum for various diagnoses. Of course, this still begs the question at what point does a problem require treatment, and at what point is psychopharmacology indicated.
**Note: The DSM IV diagnosis of "acute stress disorder" pertains to a reaction to a particular, stressful event, not generalized stress.
Appointments: 818-991-8376
Email: doc@psychiatrix.com