Abstrakt

Formulating the efficacy of using diagnosis to conceptualise distress.

Rebecca Regler

Is diagnosis the most effective way of conceptualising distress? This paper explores ideas around the use of diagnosis and alternative methods of conceptualising distress. It describes the function of diagnosis, the experience of being diagnosed and the challenges it can present. It also considers the influence which neoliberalism has had upon the mental health system. Psychological formulation has gained momentum as an alternative approach to understanding mental health difficulties. It is suggested that this may be a way forward alongside using a holistic traumainformed model to gain a better understanding of distress.