Neurologist Dr Suzanne O'Sullivan: 'We are a perfectionist society, we explain away differences or struggles as medical problems'

Dr. Suzanne O'Sullivan highlights the phenomenon of 'diagnosis creep,' where normal emotional states are increasingly being labeled as mental health disorders. Instead of describing mild sadness, personality traits, or disorganization in neutral terms, society tends to use diagnostic labels such as depression, autism, or ADHD. This trend pushes individuals towards 'illness identities', detracting from their ability to pursue recovery. O'Sullivan advocates for a shift in language and perspective, urging a focus on recovery identities rather than being defined by diagnoses.

Diagnosis creep blurs the lines between normal and abnormal behavior, leading individuals to adopt illness identities rather than focusing on recovery and well-being.

Consultant neurologist Suzanne O'Sullivan highlights the need to redefine mental health terms, encouraging a move away from labels that contribute to illness identities.

Read at Independent