My “Sad Day” Turned into a Clinical Diagnosis for Depression

The Problem with a Problem-Centric Approach to Mental Health
If I tell a therapist that I had a “sad day,” does that mean that I am clinically depressed? If I’m going through a big life transition — new school, new job — and I mention that I’m nervous, does that mean I have an adjustment or anxiety disorder? These are common conclusions drawn by professionals who feel compelled to identify a problem where, sometimes, no real problem exists. When it comes to health —especially mental health — the way we view, diagnose and treat it is backwards.

Read More