For some getting a diagnosis can either be seen as a positive or negative experience. While one individual might feel relief and hope, finally putting a name to what has been affecting their quality of life. However, others might find a diagnosis stigmatising and as if it puts them into a box. Mental illnesses are extremely personal experiences that can’t be so simplistically understood and categorised. The Mental Health Foundation writes:
“When it comes to our mental health, we are on a spectrum. It’s not just a simple yes/no diagnosis. Our mood, stress levels, well-being and how we act fluctuate depending on the circumstances in our lives, and this is the case even for those who live with a diagnosis of a long-term mental health problem. Our well-being can move from a point of struggling to a point of thriving. On a fundamental level, this personal experience is about our quality of life.”
Regardless of feelings, getting a diagnosis is a useful step towards receiving effective treatment and improving quality of life.
Making an appointment
The first step towards a diagnosis is obtaining an appointment with your GP. For common mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, your GP may be able to give you a diagnosis after one or two appointments. For less common afflictions you will need to be referred to a mental health specialist, such as a psychiatrist, who will be able to assess deeper and over a longer period of time.
During your appointment, your doctor will do an initial assessment asking questions related to:
- Mood, thoughts and behaviours – sometimes by using forms which measure depression and anxiety on a scale
- Lifestyle and recent events that might be affecting your wellbeing
- Sleep or changes in appetite or appearance
- Medical history – both yours and your family
The outcome of the appointment will depend on your answers, what the doctor thinks might help and the kind of support you might want. If assessed and diagnosed right away this will be a great first step towards getting the help you need. However, for anyone waiting for further analysis, it can be difficult but there are still ways to ensure your safety and make progress.
Waiting for a diagnosis
Waiting for anything can feel like a long time, let alone a mental health diagnosis. NHS wait times have more than doubled since the COVID-19 pandemic with a backlog of people still waiting for appointments. Just getting an appointment sometimes feels like an uphill battle. But once the first part is over and done with and you’ve been referred to a mental health specialist the time between the next appointment can feel like forever. Luckily, there are a number of things you can do to both support yourself and aid the specialist for the upcoming appointment/assessment.
Remember: no matter how long it takes, do not give up. Recognising an issue, obtaining an appointment, and talking to someone are all huge steps towards greater mental wellbeing.
What to do while waiting for a diagnosis
- Keep a mood diary – whether using an app on your phone, a pen and paper or an online document, keeping a mood diary is going to be a great help during your next appointment. The more detailed the better as it can allow both yourself and the mental health professional to possibly spot any triggers in your life that may be the cause. Journaling is also a great hobby to get into and can help in the long run.
- Independent research – when your doctor talks about your condition and offers possible options for what you might be afflicted with, take notes. You can look up the conditions or symptoms later to try and gain a better understanding of yourself. Remember: it is normal not to match every single symptom listed and does not invalidate your experience. Mental health is not one-box-fits-all and neither are your struggles. Use the research as guidance for the type of support that is offered or options that may be available to you.
- Keep the appointment – it can be tempting to lose hope altogether if you’re being kept waiting. Or, if you begin to feel better after your initial appointment. However, you should keep the appointment. Our moods can change quickly, and you could find that after a period of feeling better, your symptoms re-emerge, and you’ll be back to square one.
- Build a support system – friends and family are an important part of recovery and building a strong support system is much advised. It can be good to share the details of your appointment but only if you feel comfortable. Choosing the right people to be in your support system is crucial as they will be a great comfort to you along the journey.
- Join communities – if you feel less comfortable sharing your results or worries with people you know, in-person drop-in groups and online communities are an option. It should be noted that not all communities are moderated by medical professionals and that opinions stated are not credible and should not be taken as fact. However, communities allow you to hear about experiences firsthand with a greater level of understanding.
- Open communication – an open line of communication with your GP or any mental health specialist is vital. Keep in touch with them throughout this journey and ensure that you are being honest every step of the way.
It is important to remember that it is impossible to ‘cure’ serious mental illnesses but that does not mean that your mental wellbeing will remain the same. A diagnosis is a gateway to the road of recovery, not a destination. You are more than your mental illness.
Crisis lines
It can be very distressful waiting and during that time your mood may decrease. If you need urgent help, below is a list of crisis lines available:
- Samaritans: 24/7, 365. Call for free: 116 123.
- SANEline: 4.30 pm-10.30 pm, every day. Call for free: 0300 304 7000.
- SHOUT: 24/7 free text service. Text SHOUT to 85258.
- The Mix (under 25s): 4 pm-11 pm, Mon-Sat. Call for free: 0808 808 4994.
Northern Healthcare
Northern Healthcare is a provider of supported living services for individuals with a range of mental health conditions, autism spectrum disorders and learning difficulties. Collaboratively, we work with commissioners, health and social care workers, and our residents’ friends and families to build strong support networks as part of our support model. These support networks revolve around the individual in our care and are crucial in reducing the risk of relapse, meeting targets and goals set and supporting their recovery journey. Learn more about our support model here.
