
Psychiatric diagnoses, such as depression or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), are commonly used to describe the symptoms of mental disorders. However, these diagnoses do not provide explanations of the underlying causes of these symptoms. A recent Finnish study highlights this problem and calls for a better understanding of why these symptoms occur.
Psychiatric diagnoses are often perceived as comprehensive explanations of mental disorders. Yet they merely describe the most common symptoms. For example, a diagnosis of depression may include symptoms such as persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities and fatigue. However, this diagnosis does not reveal why these symptoms occur in a particular person.
According to the Finnish study, it is crucial to distinguish the description of symptoms from their causal explanation. The researchers analyzed information on depression provided by influential organizations such as the World Health Organization and the American Psychiatric Association. They found that most websites used language that described depression as a causal explanation of symptoms, which is scientifically inaccurate and potentially harmful.
When psychiatric diagnoses are misinterpreted as causal explanations, this can lead to inappropriate treatments. For example, a person diagnosed with depression may be prescribed antidepressants without a thorough exploration of the underlying causes of their depression. This can lead to dependence on the drugs, and a failure to treat the true causes of the disorder.
For effective therapy, it is essential to focus on the reasons why symptoms occur. This can include factors such as stressful life events, relationship problems or chemical imbalances in the brain. A holistic therapeutic approach that takes these factors into account can offer a better understanding and more effective treatment of mental disorders.
Psychiatric diagnoses play an important role in describing the symptoms of mental disorders, but they should not be regarded as causal explanations. A better understanding of the underlying causes of symptoms is essential for effective treatment and improved mental health. By adopting a holistic therapeutic approach, we can better help people suffering from mental disorders to find lasting and meaningful solutions.
Psychiatric Diagnoses Don’t Explain ‘Why’—Only ‘How’ | Psychology Today