A Troubled Encounter: My Experience with a Disrespectful Psychiatrist

Dealing with mental health can be a daunting and overwhelming process. For many, finding a psychiatrist who truly understands and respects their conditions can be a long and exhausting journey. Unfortunately, not all encounters end well. I have had three psychiatrists, and my experience with the last one was among the worst. This article delves into my struggles and shares a detailed account of a disrespectful and dismissive psychiatrist, highlighting the importance of empathy and respect in mental health treatment.

Background and Condition

I was diagnosed with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) and Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (Complex PTSD). DID is a condition characterized by the presence of two or more distinct identity states, each with its own pattern of perceiving, relating to, and thinking about the environment and self. Complex PTSD is a severe form of PTSD, often caused by prolonged and overwhelming traumatic experiences.

The Encounter with a Disrespectful Psychiatrist

My last interaction with a psychiatrist was particularly distressing and saddening. During this encounter, the psychiatrist paid little attention to my needs and instead focused on their own agenda, belittling my experiences and pushing for treatment options that I did not want or need.

Poor Communication and Dismissal

I had attempted to explain the constant presence of alternate consciousnesses in my mind and the uncontrollable shifts during a session. Instead of listening, the psychiatrist displayed smugness and arrogance. He frequently interrupted me mid-sentence and talked over me, replacing our conversation with a philosophical discourse that had no relevance to my immediate concerns. When I inquired about the diagnosis of DID, the psychiatrist dismissed it outright, claiming it wasn’t a real condition but instead a manifestation of 'manic episodes'.

Rudeness and Digression

The psychiatrist’s behavior was not just dismissive but also clearly rude. He made comments that I perceived as belittling and disrespectful. For example, when I brought up my Complex PTSD, he seemed to disregard it entirely, despite it being part of my diagnostic criteria. He even went so far as to quote outdated information from the DSM-5 (2015) version, ignoring the fact that my diagnosis criteria are based on the 2023 version, which includes DID as a recognized disorder under the dissociative disorders category. This highlight my frustration at the lack of up-to-date knowledge and the disregard for my actual condition.

Focusing on Business Over Patient Care

The session was a mere 45 minutes, and the psychiatrist spent almost a quarter of it discussing payments and documentations. It became clear that the conversation centered more on financial matters rather than actual patient care. This further emphasized his lack of empathy and genuine concern for my well-being. I felt that the psychiatrist's sole focus was on making money and asserting control over another individual.

The Aftermath and Impact

This experience was not just unpleasant; it was traumatic. The psychiatrist’s lack of empathy and respect left me feeling hurt, unvalued, and even less confident in my own experiences. His arrogance and disregard for my concerns made me question whether I was truly understood and cared for. The constant belittling and the push for antipsychotics without a proper understanding of my condition made the situation feel even more frustrating.

As someone pursuing a career in psychology, this encounter was particularly disheartening. It reinforced my belief that while the field can be challenging, it is essential to maintain a compassionate and empathetic approach in patient care.

Lessons Learned

While I was deeply affected by this experience, it also taught me valuable lessons about the importance of finding a psychiatrist who genuinely cares about their patients. Seeking a healthcare provider who is respectful, empathetic, and willing to listen can make a significant difference in the treatment outcome. Additionally, it is crucial to advocate for oneself and to walk away from healthcare providers who do not meet these standards.

In conclusion, my experience with a disrespectful and dismissive psychiatrist serves as a cautionary tale of the importance of communication, empathy, and understanding in mental health treatment. It is essential to find a healthcare provider who truly values and respects their patients, as their approach can significantly impact the healing journey.