ABOUT DIAGNOSIS

      

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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 becomes "generalized anxiety disorder."  These definitions constantly change.  Common problems, such as chronic "stress," do not correspond with 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.

*Note:  The DSM IV diagnosis of "acute stress disorder" pertains to a reaction to a particular, stressful event, not generalized stress. 


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Please send all feedback to:  doc@psychiatrix.com

Los Angeles area residents call 818-991-8376 for appt.

 

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