Wednesday Wellness Check-in: Breaking Free from Misdiagnosis
When it comes to managing your health, one of the most important factors is the relationship you have with your healthcare provider. This connection, often called a therapeutic alliance, can make or break the effectiveness of your care. I learned this the hard way when I was misdiagnosed with depression. Even though I consistently shared that I wasn’t feeling sad or experiencing typical symptoms of depression, I was placed on heavy medications when my experiences did not shift with therapy. Not only did the treatments fail to help me, but they also made my life more difficult, deepening my frustration and confusion. Looking back, I see how crucial it is to have a provider who listens to and truly understands your experiences.
A strong therapeutic alliance is about trust, collaboration, and respect. If you're seeing a doctor, therapist, or coach, it’s essential that you feel heard and valued. For me, being constantly told that I was depressed, even though that wasn’t how I felt, had a damaging impact on my mental health. It made me doubt myself and question whether I could trust my own feelings and experiences. This is why I encourage everyone, especially those managing complex or long-term conditions, to regularly evaluate their relationship with their healthcare providers.
Start by asking yourself some important questions: Does your provider really listen to you? Do they explain your diagnosis and treatment in a way that makes sense? Are you involved in making decisions about your care? These questions aren’t just important for neurodivergent people like myself—they’re critical for everyone. When you feel unsure about a diagnosis or treatment plan, it’s okay to ask for a second opinion. You have the right to seek out a provider who supports your overall well-being, rather than just checking off symptoms from a list.
It’s also important to reflect on your relationship with yourself. We often assume that our doctors know best, but ultimately, you are the expert on your own body and mind. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. If a diagnosis doesn’t seem to fit, don’t settle for it. You deserve to be an active participant in your healthcare. A therapeutic alliance should empower you to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and advocate for what you need.
By building a strong alliance with the right healthcare provider, you can take a more active role in managing your health. Whether you’re navigating neurodivergence or any other health condition, don’t be afraid to examine the care you’re receiving and ensure it’s the right fit for you. Trust yourself, and don’t hesitate to seek out the support you truly deserve.
In my own practice as a health and life coach, I make therapeutic alliance a top priority. I believe that every person deserves to feel heard and understood, and I strive to create a safe, collaborative space where my clients can explore their health and wellness goals. Whether you're navigating neurodivergence, or working toward other wellness goals, I'm here to listen and guide you in a way that feels right for you. If you're ready to take the next step in your health journey, I invite you to sign up for a FREE discovery session and see how we can work together to create a plan that fits your unique needs.
