Being assessed and diagnosed as a mentally ill professional adult, even if you are already in therapy and taking mood medications, can be valuable for several reasons:
Accurate Understanding: A formal assessment and diagnosis provide clarity about your mental health condition. Understanding the specific diagnosis can help you and your healthcare providers to tailor treatment plans and interventions to address your unique needs more effectively.
Treatment Adjustment: Sometimes, even with therapy and medications, symptoms may persist or worsen. A new or updated diagnosis can lead to adjustments in your treatment plan, which might involve trying different therapeutic approaches or medications better suited to your condition.
Reducing Self-Blame: Mental health issues can often lead to self-blame and feelings of inadequacy. Having a formal diagnosis can help you understand that your struggles are not a personal failure but a legitimate health condition that requires attention and care.
Validation and Relief: A diagnosis can bring validation and relief, as it gives a name to what you have been experiencing. Knowing that there is a recognized condition for your struggles can help you feel understood and less alone.
Access to Support Services: A formal diagnosis may qualify you for additional support services, accommodations, or resources that could enhance your overall well-being and functioning.
Improved Communication: Having a clear diagnosis can improve communication with your mental health professionals, enabling more targeted discussions about your symptoms, treatment options, and progress.
Reducing Stigma: By accepting and acknowledging your mental health condition, you can contribute to breaking down the stigma associated with mental illness, which may encourage others to seek help and support.
Preventing Misdiagnosis: A comprehensive assessment can help ensure that your current diagnosis is accurate. Misdiagnoses can happen, and revisiting your assessment can help rule out any other potential factors contributing to your difficulties.
It is essential to remember that being diagnosed with a mental health condition does not define you as a person or your worth. It is a part of your health journey, and with proper support and treatment, many people lead fulfilling lives despite mental health challenges.
If you still find that you are struggling even with therapy and medication, consider discussing your concerns with your mental health professional. They can explore other treatment options or make adjustments to your current approach to better address your needs. Remember, seeking help and being proactive about your mental health is a sign of strength and resilience.