How to deal with and process a diagnosis

My last blog looked at the first steps towards seeking professional help when suffering with your mental health. Today I will offer an insight into what it might be like to receive a diagnosis and ways to manage this process.

If you decide to speak with your GP, you may go on to receive a diagnosis such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder or an anxiety disorder. For those who do, they will probably experience a combination of emotions. Some may find that a diagnosis offers relief, clarity, reassurance and a sense that they are not alone in it. It may also remove their sense that what they are feeling and experiencing is their fault and offer them the opportunity to reflect on their experiences as separate from themselves and something to overcome. A diagnosis can also come with resources such as information and support.

The experience will not be positive for everyone though, and some may feel exposed and ashamed when receiving a diagnosis. They may be filled with feelings of fear or sadness, and overwhelmed at the concept, perhaps with a sense of being labelled or condemned in some way to a lifetime feeling the way they do. It can be an incredibly scary time and there could be anger around why it has happened to them and what it means for them. There could be confusion and disbelief, or they may disagree with their diagnosis. This could mean the diagnosis is denied or ignored.

But there will no doubt be an emotional response.

Ways to manage this:

1. Talk about it: This could be to your friends, family, or a therapist. When we talk about something it offers space to explore how we feel about it and heal the pain we experience. If there is no one around that you feel able to talk with you can telephone or text a helpline. Alternatively, you can journal about it.

2. Figure out what works for you: This may entail researching your diagnosis and seeing what has worked for other people. The answer may come as a result of talking about it or be something you instinctively know already. Making a decision about what it best for you will enable you to achieve your desired outcome the way that suits you. If this means disregarding the diagnosis, then this does not have to stop your recovery. Don’t forget that you have options and choices.

3. Get support: This could be through support groups online or in person where other people can share their experiences. This may mean reaching out to a therapist.

4. Remember that there is hope and you can cope: Offer yourself patience, compassion and time to process receiving your diagnosis.

What can those of us who are not suffering with our mental health do to help those who may be reaching out for, or receiving help?

Firstly, I want to say that you don’t need to be ill to have therapy. It isn’t just for those suffering, at rock bottom or with a diagnosis. It is for everyone, and for anyone who wants to learn more about themselves or heal in a safe place. Understanding this means we can all be advocates for mental health and reduce the stigma associated with diagnosis and services. Those with a diagnosis or without one but in therapy, may experience stigma. This will make the experience that bit more difficult. Offer them space to talk freely with you about it, without judgement or advice. Ask them how they would like you to refer to their struggles so they don’t feel labelled unfairly. Importantly, be mindful of the vocabulary you use.