The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) is a researched handbook that guides clinicians, researchers, and public health officers in having a common language for mental health in the US. The DSM manual was issued by the American Psychiatric Association (APA), and it covers all the categories of mental health disorders for both adults and children (Cherry, 2019).
The DSM mental disorder that Ernest is suffering from is Bipolar disorder. Its highs and lows positively characterize this disorder that fits Ernest. Diagnosis of bipolar disorder requires thorough physical tests (thyroid and urine tests) and the patient's psychological evaluations to ascertain it is bipolar. A psychiatrist will have questions prepared to assess Ernest's mental health. The questions may include how long and often the episodes occur, whether they disrupt everyday life, etc. The psychiatrist also asks about the history of bipolar disorder in the family and if he has a history of drug abuse. A conclusive diagnosis was reached when Ernest answered on his thoughts and feelings during and after the episodes and how long they lasted. These are some of the symptoms used to diagnose the mental illness:
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Mania |
Depression |
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High self-confidence. |
Lack of motivation and low energy levels. |
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Euphoria. |
Trouble concentrating. |
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Easily distracted. |
Much sleeping. |
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Increased sex drive. |
Depressed mood. |
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Fast-talking. |
Suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempts. |
Problems of DSM Diagnosis
The DSM manual is considered as the psychiatric bible due to its information on mental disorders. The method has its advantages, such as standardization of diagnosis within the US, and demerits such as overdiagnosis. Ernest shows all the clear indications of Bipolar disorder. Some of the problems of DSM diagnosis may include:
Oversimplification is an issue many people have raised concerning the complex human behavior that has been summarized with numbers and labels within a couple of pages.
Misdiagnosis and overdiagnosis – can occur when there is insufficient evidence to support a disorder or when other conditions such as ADHD are shifted to fit the DSM-V needs.
Labeling and stigmatization – Although mental health is not as discriminated against as in the past, some labels still carry flawed perceptions of the condition. Psychiatrists are recommended not to label patients, not unless it is required.
Source of the DSM Diagnosis Problem
The problems of diagnosing bipolar disorder for many patients, including Ernest, is brought about by the over-reliance on the DSM manual for diagnosing patients. Other physical tests must be carried out to indicate that a patient has the disorder. In a bipolar condition, a thyroid function test should be carried out to rule out hypothyroidism if the body fails to produce enough thyroid hormone that affects the brain. Incorporation of other helpful materials such as the Psychodynamic Diagnostic Manual is essential to diagnose a patient properly.
Medication
When Ernest was successfully diagnosed with bipolar disorder, he was prescribed several medications, including lithium carbonate, sodium valproate, and antidepressant medication. This treatment method is recommended for mood stabilization when Mania and depression are experienced to either 'even out' or control mood swings. Different patients require various treatments; for instance, Ernest has long-term treatment to help with everyday life. Also, if an individual has an acute episode, a short-term treatment plan is required.
Strengths of the System
The merits of the (Fritscher, 2020) system include:
Standardization – provides medical practitioners and the patients like Ernest with a suitable, accommodating treatment irrespective of location, social class, or ability to pay.
Research guidance – researches can be guided on their research from the mental health field perspective. Different patients can have various needs and display other symptoms in the same category. So, their differences can be compiled for the next issue of DSM.
Therapeutic guidance - When Ernest was brought to a psychologist, his problem was quickly diagnosed, eliminating guesswork. Proper diagnosis and treatment were issued to help him recover and continue with his life normally.
Course of Treatment
A psychiatrist is a skilled professional who diagnoses and treats bipolar or other mental disorders. Treatments may include medication, continued therapy for lifelong treatment like Ernest, substance abuse treatment for drug abusers, and dangerous behavior that calls for hospitalization. Ernest is being treated with the three types of medication: mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants. Psychotherapy is equally as essential and is recommended to be in the presence of a caregiver, guardian, or family. Other treatments may include Psychoeducation or a robust support system.
References
Cherry, K. (2020). How Mental Health Professionals Use the DSM Today . Very well, Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/the-diagnostic-and-statistical-manual-dsm-2795758
Fritscher. L (2020) . Can the Diagnostic Manual for Mental Health Do More Harm Than Good? Very well, Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/dsm-friend-or-foe-2671930
