Are psychiatric and psychological problems truly on the rise, or have we begun to normalise mental illness as part of modern life?

Psychologist Ilze van der Merwe-Alberts addresses this complex topic, exploring whether mental health diagnoses empower us, or limit our understanding of ourselves.

OVER-DIAGNOSIS AND MEDICALISATION

An article published in the Wall Street Journal in December 2010 revealed startling statistics for children in the United States on psychiatric medications in 2009:

  • ADHD medications – 24 357 000
  • Antihypertensives – 5 224 000
  • Antipsychotics – 6 546 000
  • Antidepressants – 9 614 000
  • Sleep aids – 307 000

(Editor's note: As of 2022 to 2023, 13% of U.S. children aged 3 to 17 had a current diagnosed mental or behavioural health condition. Nearly 1 in 5 children had ever received such a diagnosis over their lifetime. A May 2024 CDC-backed study reported that 11.4% of children [1 in 9] in the 3 to 17 age group were diagnosed with ADHD in 2022. This marks a clear increase compared to earlier estimates of 8 to 10% from the 2010s).

These numbers suggest a culture of over-diagnosis, particularly among children. But this concern extends to adults too. Many individuals feel relief when a diagnosis is provided, it offers clarity, treatment pathways, and the hope of improvement. Yet, such labels can also be a double-edged sword, especially when driven by a demand for solutions that match internal struggles.

THE PSYCHOLOGY OF SEEKING HELP

The journey to healing often begins with the acknowledgment of emotional pain. Whether it’s depression, loss of control, or a deep sense of disconnection, seeking help takes immense courage. As Dr John Demartini puts it, ‘your body and mind do everything they can to teach you love’. Inflexibly identifying with illness can, however, reinforce the illness itself. When a diagnosis becomes an identity: ‘I am bipolar’, for example, it shapes how we see ourselves and how others respond to us.

WHY WE EMBRACE LABELS

We all long to be loved for who we are. When a professional confirms a diagnosis, it can feel like validation: ‘It’s not my fault.’ This removes blame, and in some cases, even shame. A diagnosis can give structure to chaos, a framework for understanding oneself, and something to work with. For the wise, it becomes a doorway to growth, rather than a life sentence.

USING A DIAGNOSIS TO EMPOWER YOURSELF

First, recognise that a diagnosis is not your identity, it’s a label for a pattern of symptoms. Then ask: What benefits am I currently receiving from this diagnosis? You might realise you are receiving more support or patience from loved ones. Next, examine the drawbacks: Has this label limited your opportunities? Has it shaped how others see your capabilities?

Then, shift the question: What other ways can I receive these benefits without needing the diagnosis? What qualities can I nurture? What strengths can I develop?

This process does not replace professional treatment, whether natural or pharmaceutical. Rather, it deepens your self-understanding and supports personal growth. As Einstein said, ‘You predict your future by creating your future.’ The more responsibility you assume for your emotional and physical health, the greater your sense of vitality and mastery over life.

Editor’s Note: Mental health remains one of the most urgent yet misunderstood frontiers in holistic medicine. As research evolves, so too must our approach, moving beyond mere labels to empower root-cause healing. For more insight into neurochemical balance, consider exploring amino acid therapy and neurofeedback technologies, or visit our article on Understanding Bipolar Mood Disorder.

continue to top