Can your diagnosis be influenced by your physician’s personality traits?
According to a new study, a physician’s attitudes and personality traits may affect the tendency to diagnose mood swings or depression. Some physicians apparently are sensitive to certain topics such as depression or suicide and are reluctant to discuss these issues with patients regardless of need.
According to Dr. Duberstein, co-author of the study, depression is frequently not diagnosed and suicidal tendencies are not explored even went quite evident. Physicians should reflect on the possibility that their personal traits might taint their diagnosis – or lack thereof – in mental health situations.
It is possible to look at different screening mechanisms aside from personal inquiry or confrontation in these situations. For example, a screening questionnaire developed by a mental health specialist might be employed.
The researchers analyzed data, audiotapes and medical records from a study in which six actresses were trained to portray a patient with major depression, and/or adjustment disorder with depressed mood.
The meetings were taped using concealed tape recorders. The physicians, who were not informed the actresses were patients, were seen by internal and family medicine specialists. In all, 46 physicians with 88 patient visits were studied.
Mental health issues are frequently under-addressed and this study gives some credence as to why they are not addressed. It is sad to know that 15 million American adults and about 23% of children suffer with depression. About 80% of people suffering from depression are not receiving any treatment. More than 90% of people who die from suicide are suffering from a diagnosable mental illness, commonly a depressive disorder. Depression is also known to weaken the immune system making way for other more serious medical conditions to develop.
Depression is one of the most treatable illnesses with over 80% finding relief with therapy.
About the author
Kathy Shattler received her Master of Science degree from Michigan State University in E. Lansing Michigan in Human Nutrition. Her twenty-two years of practice includes holding positions as a Lecturer, Chief Clinical Dietitian and Program Manager. Kathy is the Founder of Nutri-Care Consulting and is currently the Nutrition Director of www.CEU4U.COM, an online continuing education management company for Registered Dietitians and Dietetic Technicians.
