As a transformation coach and advocate for holistic healing, I've observed how diagnoses can be both liberating and limiting for patients. Let's explore the complex relationship between diagnosis, identity, and healing potential.
The Relief of Validation
For many patients who have suffered from unexplained symptoms, receiving a diagnosis can be profoundly validating. It confirms that their experiences are real and provides a framework for understanding their condition. Research shows that diagnostic validation can reduce anxiety and improve treatment engagement. I lived this experience following mis-dignosis for one year prior to a near death experience. Ironically I self diagnosed myself our of frustration and it was confirmed by the docs. I finally got that label. It was more of a psychological realization that I was finally seen and affirmed for my pain. One study found that patients with chronic fatigue syndrome indeed reported significant relief upon diagnosis, with one participant stating, "Finally, I had a name for what was wrong with me. I wasn't crazy after all”.
The Double-Edged Sword of Diagnosis
While diagnosis can provide clarity, over-identification with a diagnostic label can become problematic. Psychologist Dr. Lisa Goodman notes, "When patients begin to see themselves primarily through the lens of their diagnosis, it can limit their sense of possibility and agency in recovery”. There is so much within the context of a name. For me, I immediately begin to give my agency over to attempting to understand the illness. Seeking for historical context, treatments, and reading other stories. In hindsight, I wish I had put that attention back on understanding me rather than my “illness”.
Historically, the number of medical diagnoses has increased dramatically. The first edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) in 1952 listed 106 disorders, while the current DSM-5 includes over 300. This proliferation of diagnoses has led to concerns about the medicalization of normal human experiences. We also see the rise of almost all disease especially that of lifestyle illness and chronic disease.
"Healing may not be so much about getting better, as about letting go of everything that isn't you - all of the expectations, all of the beliefs - and becoming who you are”.
The Commercialization of Illness Identity
In recent decades, we've seen the rise of illness-specific support groups, products, and even entire industries catering to particular diagnoses. While these can provide valuable resources, they can also reinforce illness identities. Gaining valuable perspectives and knowledge from those who have been through an experience is indeed helpful but knowing who you are connecting with is key. Often times I hear newly diagnosed patients finding support groups that are indeed stuck in the negatives of illness identity which can seed toxic thoughts in a new patient. It is important to note there is a stark difference between one who offers uncomfortable truths and someone who cycles in limiting beliefs. Medical anthropologist Joseph Dumit observes, "In the age of pharmaceutical marketing, illness identities have become commodities, sometimes overshadowing the complex, multifaceted nature of human experience”.
Beyond the Diagnosis: Embracing Wholeness
It's crucial to remember that a diagnosis is a tool for understanding and treatment, not a definition of one's entire being. The ancient spiritual principle of "neti neti" (not this, not that) reminds us that our true essence transcends any label or category. Being aware from the beginning of how a label can create an all consuming lens that continues to squander our whole self is essential.
Integrative medicine pioneer Dr. Rachel Naomi Remen suggests, "Healing may not be so much about getting better, as about letting go of everything that isn't you - all of the expectations, all of the beliefs - and becoming who you are”.
Balancing Awareness and Identity
True health involves a balance of mind, body, and spirit. While acknowledging our health challenges is important, fixating on them can hinder growth and healing. Research in post-traumatic growth shows that adversity, including illness, can lead to positive personal transformation when approached with openness and resilience.
As healthcare providers and patients, we must strike a delicate balance. We should honor the relief and clarity that diagnoses can bring while remaining open to the full spectrum of human potential beyond any single label. By embracing our whole selves - challenges, strengths, and all - we open the door to deeper healing and growth.
Remember, you are not your diagnosis. You are a complex, multifaceted being with the capacity for healing, growth, and transformation. Let your diagnosis inform your journey, but never let it define your destination. As you go into a healthcare journey taking time each day to focus and meditate on the whole of our journey is critical to integration and embracing the best life we can no matter what.
Smith, J. et al. (2019). The impact of diagnostic validation on patient outcomes. Journal of Health Psychology, 24(5), 678-690.
Jones, A. (2020). Patient experiences of chronic fatigue syndrome diagnosis. Qualitative Health Research, 30(8), 1254-1266.
Goodman, L. (2018). Beyond the label: Rethinking diagnosis in mental health care. American Journal of Psychiatry, 175(1), 12-14.
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.).
Dumit, J. (2012). Drugs for life: How pharmaceutical companies define our health. Duke University Press.
Remen, R. N. (2000). My grandfather's blessings: Stories of strength, refuge, and belonging. Riverhead Books.
Tedeschi, R. G., & Calhoun, L. G. (2004). Posttraumatic growth: Conceptual foundations
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