From being dismissed by mental health services to receiving an inaccurate diagnosis, the quest for treatment is often riddled with hurdles. Ann-Marie D'Arcy Sharpe, who lives with Bipolar Disorder, tells Mental Health Knowledge how her difficulties in accessing professional support can inform practice. 

"To be dismissed or offered an unhelpful intervention can not only aggravate the very symptoms you're seeking help for, but can also result in a lack of trust in professionals."

The diagnostic process for Bipolar Disorder typically takes years, with many not receiving a diagnosis until much later in life.

My experience of being misdiagnosed is all too common. Bipolar Disorder can mirror symptoms of other mental illnesses and it’s understandable that professionals may be hesitant to put that diagnosis in place without being as sure as they can be.  

 

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