S3E16 - How do we avoid overdiagnosis whilst respecting people’s experiences? With Dr Elspeth Davies and Dr Helen Salisbury

In this episode we are joined by Dr. Elspeth Davies, a medical anthropologist from the University of Oxford, and Dr. Helen Salisbury, a GP and BMJ columnist, about their BMJ article: How do we talk about overdiagnosis of mental health conditions without dismissing people’s suffering?

Our discussion explores the fine line between validating patients' experiences and the potential harms of unnecessary diagnostic labels. We examine the influence of medicalisation, the role of diagnoses in accessing care and benefits, and the broad societal implications.

The conversation also highlights the need for improved communication between doctors and patients and the importance of considering alternative approaches to understanding mental health issues.

Please note that this show does not constitute medical advice and is not a replacement for seeking professional help. You can find out more about the show and get signposting to support on our website livelymindspod.com

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00:00 Introduction to Lively Minds Podcast
00:20 Introducing the Topic of Over-Diagnosis
00:27 Meet the Experts: Dr. Elspeth Davies and Dr. Helen Salisbury
01:28 Defining Over-Diagnosis in Mental Health
02:24 The Complexity of Diagnosing Mental Health Conditions
04:39 The Role of Diagnoses in Accessing Support
07:36 The Impact of Diagnoses on Patients
09:48 The Debate on Over-Diagnosis and Medicalization
25:52 The Influence of Pharmaceutical Companies
26:26 Improving Conversations Between Doctors and Patients
29:11 The Political Context of Over-Diagnosis
31:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts