Misdiagnosis

[myshkin873]

I went to a psychiatrist who is foreign, and I believe she misdiagnosed me with bipolar disorder and psychosis. I was seeing a university counselor very regularly at the time, and she agrees that I don't appear to have bipolar disorder and never had psychosis (she was seeing me once a week during the same time that I was seeing this doctor).

When I asked the pdoc why I got the psychosis diagnosis, she said it was b/c I stated that I didn't feel human, but I wasn't being *literal*! It's just an expression. Now I'm terrified that it will ruin my chances for obtaining a job, esp in information security, which is what I really want to do. I am also scared that I will never get health insurance b/c of this preexisting condition.

What can I do to rid myself of this diagnosis? Can I still get a job in IS for the govt?

[Xila31]

Actually, for a job in security and jobs with the government they will check your history and that includes medical information and give you a psychiatric evaluation for specific levels of clearance. They want to do the best they can to ensure a stable, secure person is in certain positions, so I can understand your concern.

So, I agree you first need to get a second opinion. Being diagnosed off of a single statement seems a little off to me. For bipolar they would need more than just one statement, that's for sure. Either behavior patterns, going manic from anti-depressants, symptoms, and testing.

Good luck!

[lilys]

You should really see another psych and get a second opinion. eventhough she is a doctor everybody make mistakes...

[bbq33]

Your medical records are private. As long as what you have is under control then I see no problem getting the IS job. As for insurance, if you don't have any now they can't get any info from the doctors. it's confidencal. If you have insurance now, they may find out about it. You have privacy, tell them only what you want.

[paranoid_cataclysm]

I don't think you're required to tell your employers anyway unless you want to or need accommodations for your job.

[ILADVOCATE]

You can't get rid of a diagnosis but if your medication treats it then you are still able to "perform the essential function of the job" under the Americans with Disabilities Act. That specific psychiatrist may or may not have been good but a psychiatrist knows more than a counselor as they have a medical degree and can prescribe medications. Regardless if a person has thoughts or ideas that show a strong departure from reality or reality testing that is generally considered psychotic. Mania and depression are easier to explain. If a person only has psychotic thoughts during moodswings that is generally classified as bipolar with psychotic features. That is of course treatable. See a psychiatrist you trust more and ask them why they see what they are diagnosing in you and how it can be treated.