Am I Diagnosed with Depression? Mental Health Evaluations

Is a diagnosis of a mental disorder... depression?

Hello, doctor: I would like to ask about my situation.
In November 2017, due to workplace conflicts with colleagues, I experienced significant negative emotions and stress, to the point where I didn't want to go to work or see my coworkers.
I often felt low in the evenings, had trouble sleeping, and was afraid that if this continued, I would become ill.
I would pass by the Happy Mind Clinic on my way to work and decided to visit for a consultation.
The doctor prescribed medication and asked me to return for a follow-up appointment in a week.
After taking the medication once, I felt lethargic and emotionally flat, so I stopped taking it and did not go back for the follow-up.
I then decisively found a new job with a better work environment, and I get along well with my new colleagues.

Recently, I have been considering health insurance and learned that having seen a psychiatrist can complicate underwriting.
There are questions regarding mental health history, specifically whether I have a psychoneurotic disorder.
I want to know if being prescribed medication means I was diagnosed with depression.
Does seeing a doctor once automatically lead to a diagnosis? According to the National Health Insurance Administration's records, my condition is classified as psychophysiological insomnia, and the medications prescribed were: Anxiolytic 0.5 mg, Yongkang Su coated tablets, and 20 mg of Paroxetine.
However, the indications for these medications include anxiety and depression.
Does this mean I have been diagnosed with depression?

Meimei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/03/07

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry

Hello, based on my understanding, issues with insurance denial are more likely to occur only in cases of significant mental illnesses such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
It is not the case that simply seeing a psychiatrist or psychologist would lead to a denial of coverage.
Furthermore, your diagnosis of "psychophysiological insomnia" indicates that short-term insomnia is a very common condition.
If this particular insurance company is so strict, I believe other companies would be eager to offer you coverage.
Additionally, regarding disputes related to insurance, if it involves medical expertise, I would recommend that patients seek assistance from the "Financial Consumer Protection Center," which employs consultants from various medical specialties.
Dr.
Wu En-Liang

Reply Date: 2020/03/07

More Info

Determining whether you have depression can be a complex process that involves understanding your symptoms, their duration, and their impact on your daily life. Based on the information you've provided, it seems that you have experienced significant emotional distress, particularly related to work stress and interpersonal conflicts. Symptoms such as persistent low mood, sleep disturbances, lack of energy, and feelings of hopelessness are indeed common indicators of depression.

In clinical practice, a diagnosis of depression typically requires that symptoms persist for at least two weeks and significantly impair your ability to function in daily life. The symptoms you mentioned, such as feeling low, having trouble sleeping, and experiencing a lack of motivation, align with common depressive symptoms. Additionally, if these feelings have been recurrent or have intensified over time, it further supports the possibility of a depressive disorder.

It's important to note that a single visit to a mental health professional does not automatically result in a diagnosis of depression. Mental health diagnoses are usually based on a comprehensive evaluation that includes a detailed history of your symptoms, their duration, and their impact on your life. The medications prescribed to you, such as anxiolytics and antidepressants, suggest that the clinician may have identified symptoms consistent with anxiety or depression, but this does not confirm a formal diagnosis without further assessment.

The classification of your condition as "psychophysiological insomnia" indicates that your sleep issues may be linked to psychological factors, which is often seen in individuals experiencing stress or anxiety. This classification does not exclude the possibility of depression, as insomnia is a common symptom of depressive disorders.

If you are concerned about how a previous diagnosis or treatment might affect your ability to obtain health insurance, it is advisable to consult with a mental health professional who can provide clarity on your diagnosis and treatment history. They can also help you understand how to communicate your mental health history to insurance providers.

In summary, while your symptoms and experiences suggest that you may be dealing with depression or anxiety, a definitive diagnosis should be made by a qualified mental health professional after a thorough evaluation. If you are feeling overwhelmed or if your symptoms are affecting your quality of life, seeking help from a mental health provider is a crucial step. They can offer support, treatment options, and guidance on managing your mental health effectively. Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health, and seeking help is a sign of strength.

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