Mixing Up Moods: When Doctors Get It Wrong

Doctors who aren't mental health experts often mix up depression and delirium. This can lead to people being unfairly labeled as depressed when they're not. It can also mean that real cases of delirium get overlooked. A study looked at medical records from different places to see how often this happens. The study found that non-psychiatrists and psychiatrists often disagree on diagnoses. This is a big deal because getting the wrong label can cause problems. For one, it can make normal emotions seem like a mental illness. It can also delay treatment for delirium, which can be serious. Delirium is a sudden change in brain function. It can cause confusion, problems focusing, and changes in awareness. It's often a side effect of medical conditions or medications. Depression, on the other hand, is a long-term mood disorder. It's important to tell them apart. But why do doctors get it wrong? One reason could be that symptoms of delirium and depression can look alike. Both can cause low mood, lack of energy, and trouble concentrating. But they have different causes and need different treatments. The study shows that more training might help. Doctors who aren't psychiatrists should know more about delirium. This way, they can spot it and treat it properly. It's not about blaming doctors. It's about making sure patients get the right care. In the end, the study highlights a common issue in hospitals. It's a reminder that mental health care is complex. It's also a call to action to improve how we diagnose and treat these conditions.