Figuring out our mental health condition is a big part of mental health journey. Whether it’s dealing with mood disorders or ADHD, a diagnosis can help us understand what’s going on and get us the right help. Read on to know how to get a mental health diagnosis!
What is a diagnosis?
A diagnosis is a formal identification or recognition of a specific mental health condition based on signs, symptoms, and test results. Think of a diagnosis like a name for your mental health concern. Diagnosis can be obtained through assessments, tests, observations, clinical interviews etc. For some mental health condition, getting a diagnosis may take more time than others due to comorbidity, complications, and other factors.
What are the benefits of having a diagnosis?
1. Clarification and understanding: Think of a diagnosis like shining a light on what’s going on with you. It helps to explain why you’re feeling certain ways and makes sense of what’s happening. It’s like saying, “Oh, that’s why I’ve been feeling this way!”.
2. Treatment guidance: Once you have a diagnosis, it can provide a map for the right treatment. A diagnosis can help mental health professionals figure out the best way to help you feel better. Having tailored plan that’s just for you can help you adjust well to your mental health concerns.
3. Access to support and resources: Getting a diagnosis can be like opening a door to lots of helpful stuff. It connects you with groups of people who understand what you’re going through, gives you access to cool learning materials, and special services made just for your situation.
4. Empowerment and coping: Knowing exactly what’s up can make you feel stronger. It helps you and your family figure out better ways to handle tough times in navigating the mental health condition.
What are the myths and truths about a diagnosis?
Myth 1: Assessments are always awkward
Truth: Assessments are designed to understand and support you. If anything feels off for you during the assessment, you can talk about it with the clinical psychologist.
Myth 2: Diagnoses are bad news
Truth: A diagnosis isn’t a scary label—it’s like a map to help you find the right support. It’s not who you are; it’s just a guide for mental health professionals to figure out how to help you best.
Myth 3: Only “big problems” get diagnosed
Truth: Mental health diagnoses aren’t reserved for severe conditions. They can help understand various struggles, from everyday stress to more complex issues. Getting a diagnosis early might prevent problems from getting worse.
Myth 4: Diagnoses are embarrassing
Truth: Asking for help is a brave step toward understanding your feelings. It doesn’t change who you are—it just helps you take control and get the right help.
Myth: All diagnoses are permanent
Truth: Yes and no. While some diagnoses remain the same over time, others can change or evolve.
Getting assessed at Aloe Mind
At Aloe Mind, we cover diagnosis for mental health concerns like ADHD, mood disorders (such as depression and anxiety), personality disorders, eating disorders, and many more. To start, here’s some guide for you:
- ADHD Assessment: If you’re seeking an assessment for ADHD, start by booking a pre-assessment consultation here.
- Depression, Anxiety, Stress and Trauma Assessment: For mood disorders and trauma assessment, start by booking a pre-assessment consultation here.
- Others: If your concern falls under different mental health areas (like personality, eating disorders), you can book your first therapy session, with our clinical psychologist here. This session serves as the starting point for the clinical psychologist to address your unique mental health needs. The clinical psychologist will take the time to understand your challenges and concerns, to form a diagnosis. It is normal for a clinical psychologist to take multiple sessions to assess if you have a mental health disorder.
To learn more about our services and price details, please visit our website for more information. If you’re unsure about the right assessment for you, don’t hesitate to reach out!
Report for my diagnosis
After your assessment, our psychologist can give you reports or letters if you need them. These letters and reports are often used for work, studies or personal records.
Getting help without a diagnosis
Even if you don’t have a diagnosis for a mental health disorder, it doesn’t mean that you don’t deserve help. Our therapists are here to help you make sense of your struggles and can work with you through therapy. Sometimes, understanding your feelings is what you need, and our team is dedicated to supporting you through your mental health journey. Feel free to reach out, and we’ll guide you toward the support you need, regardless of having a diagnosis or not.
What do I do now?
If a diagnosis is something you’re looking for, go ahead and book the pre-assessment consultation with our clinical psychologist!
Book a session on our website, or Whatsapp us at +60 17-803 8384!