<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Arguably, there is more discussion today than there has been throughout history when it comes to mental health conditions.&nbsp; However, there is still a gap between the communication offered, and that which is needed.&nbsp; Open communication plays a key role in both diagnosis, and treatment, of mental health conditions.</p> <p>The role of communication in diagnosis of mental health conditions</p> <ul> <li><strong>Discussion of symptoms:</strong> Symptoms vary from case to case.&nbsp; If patients can explain the symptoms that are giving them the most problems, it allows for a better, more accurate diagnosis.&nbsp; This pairs with the need for open communication in bringing up symptoms to specialists and professionals without fear or retribution.</li> </ul> <ul> <li><strong>Explanation on the severity/frequency of symptoms:</strong> By the patient being free to explain the severity and frequency of the symptoms that they are feeling, they will be able to give the specialist a better insight into how they are struggling, allowing for a better treatment plan.</li> </ul> <ul> <li><strong>Comfort in speaking &ldquo;their truth&rdquo;:</strong> Understanding their own reality for what it really is starts from open communication with trust between patient and specialist.&nbsp; This is often a breakthrough point where patients start to see a way forward, too, since the diagnosis will line up with their explanation.</li> </ul> <p>The role of communication in the treatment of mental health conditions</p> <ul> <li><strong>Admitting to a bad day:</strong> Bad days happen no matter how committed to their treatment someone is.&nbsp; Openly discussing them and seeing them for what they are -- just a bad day -- helps the patient continue on the path to success and it also helps the specialist to explain and acknowledge that these bad days happen.</li> </ul> <ul> <li><strong>Identifying triggers: </strong>During treatment, open communication helps most people determine triggers so that they know what to avoid or take on, based on that.&nbsp; Having the freedom to explain those triggers and express their importance is a key in that.</li> </ul> <ul> <li><strong>Seeking help:</strong> In dealing with a flare-up of symptoms and struggles, individuals who need help should have the freedom to express their need to seek that help without judgement or without feeling as though they can not speak freely about needing that help.</li> </ul> <p>More communication is needed</p> <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; While the world has progressed, especially regarding the prominence of depression and anxiety in teens and young adults, there is still more communication needed.&nbsp;&nbsp; Prioritizing it both in the idea of diagnosis as well as in treatment that is ongoing, everyone will be able to enjoy better access to the things that matter most to them at their current stage.&nbsp; This is especially so with women who often lack the education to understand the importance of both open communication and mental health support.&nbsp; Instead of simply following a script of preplanned explanations or delivering cookie cutter guidance, open communication between specialist and patient is the best way to guarantee the best diagnosis and treatment.</p> <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Proper mental health treatment plays a role in long-term quality of life.&nbsp; This starts with open communication as a direct part in that approach.&nbsp; Though the world has come a long way, there is still some distance to go.</p> <p>Sources</p> <ul> <li><a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1359105314551622">https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1359105314551622</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0272735808000652">https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0272735808000652</a></li> </ul>