Patient Voices: Trust and Perception in Psychiatry

Q: Patient Voices: Trust and Perception in Psychiatry

Hello： Diseases themselves have specific definitions, and regardless of the criteria used for diagnosis, there are certain reference methods. <br>In our assessments, besides utilizing existing diagnostic tests and examination tools, clinical interviews and physical examinations a

Question

As a patient, are my words not trusted or considered? If I only express sensations related to my body, will they immediately be attributed to a disease? What methods are available to diagnose this condition? A patient poses the question: Horses and dogs can hear high frequencies that humans cannot, and dolphins use ultrasound; do humans have similar capabilities? If not, why? I believe that when listening to music through headphones, the sounds in my mind can be perceived (by others).
I apologize for not being clear if the above questions fall within the scope of medical consultation, and whether it is similar to seeing a doctor and requires payment.

Yaling, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/10/14

Dr. Chen Wenke reply Psychiatry

Hello: Diseases themselves have specific definitions, and regardless of the criteria used for diagnosis, there are certain reference methods.
In our assessments, besides utilizing existing diagnostic tests and examination tools, clinical interviews and physical examinations are also very important.
Additionally, some phenomena may vary under different cultural factors and may not lead to the same conclusions.
Certain behaviors that are classified as abnormal in location A may be considered normal within the cultural context of location B.
In summary, the establishment of any disease is best achieved through a comprehensive observation over time.

Reply Date: 2002/10/14

More Info

Understanding the complexities of auditory experiences in patients, particularly those with psychiatric conditions, is crucial for both diagnosis and treatment. Your concerns about whether what you say is taken seriously in a clinical setting are valid and reflect a broader issue in psychiatric care: the balance between subjective experience and objective assessment.

When patients report hearing voices or experiencing auditory hallucinations, mental health professionals often conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying causes. This process typically includes a detailed clinical interview, standardized assessment tools, and sometimes physical examinations or lab tests to rule out other medical conditions. The aim is to differentiate between symptoms that are purely psychiatric and those that may have a neurological or physiological basis.
For instance, auditory hallucinations can be a symptom of various conditions, including schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, severe depression, or even substance use disorders. However, it is essential to approach each case with sensitivity and an open mind. Just because a symptom is categorized under a specific diagnosis does not mean the patient's experience is invalid or less significant. Mental health professionals are trained to listen to patients' narratives and consider their subjective experiences as part of the diagnostic process.

Regarding your question about the ability of certain animals to hear frequencies beyond human perception, this is indeed a fascinating topic. Animals like dogs and dolphins have specialized auditory systems that allow them to perceive sounds at frequencies that humans cannot. While humans do not possess the same range of auditory capabilities, we do have a degree of sensitivity to certain frequencies that can vary from person to person. The human auditory system is primarily tuned to frequencies between 20 Hz and 20 kHz, and while we may not hear high-frequency sounds like dogs do, we can still experience a wide range of auditory stimuli.

The idea that one can "hear" music in their head, especially when using headphones, is a common experience. This phenomenon can be attributed to the brain's ability to create auditory imagery, where the mind generates sound without external auditory input. This is not the same as hearing voices in a psychiatric context, but it does illustrate the brain's complex processing of sound and music.

As for your concerns about whether these questions fall within the realm of medical consultation, they certainly do. Engaging with a mental health professional about your experiences and inquiries is a vital step in understanding your condition and finding appropriate support. Many clinics offer initial consultations, which may be covered by insurance, depending on your plan. It is essential to seek help from qualified professionals who can provide the necessary guidance and support tailored to your needs.

In summary, your experiences and questions are valid and deserve careful consideration within the psychiatric framework. Mental health professionals strive to balance the subjective experiences of patients with objective assessments to provide the best possible care. If you have concerns about your auditory experiences or any other symptoms, I encourage you to reach out to a mental health provider who can help you navigate these complexities and find the support you need.

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