When Psychiatric Misdiagnosis Causes Harm
Mental health care plays a critical role in helping people manage conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. When properly diagnosed and treated, psychiatric care can dramatically improve quality of life. But when a misdiagnosis occurs, the consequences can be devastating.
In Maryland, patients who suffer harm because of psychiatric misdiagnosis may have grounds for a medical malpractice claim. For legal guidance, share the specifics of your situation with a Baltimore personal injury lawyer.
Understanding Psychiatric Misdiagnosis
A psychiatric misdiagnosis happens when a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist, incorrectly identifies a patient’s condition or fails to diagnose one altogether. This can happen for many reasons, such as incomplete evaluations, failure to review medical history, ignoring physical causes of symptoms, or bias in interpreting a patient’s behavior.
Common examples of misdiagnosis include:
- Diagnosing depression when the patient is experiencing bipolar disorder or another mood disorder.
- Attributing physical symptoms to anxiety or stress when there is an underlying medical issue.
- Failing to identify suicidal ideation or psychosis, resulting in delayed or inappropriate treatment.
- Wrongly diagnosing someone with a severe mental illness, leading to unnecessary medication, stigma, and loss of autonomy.
The effects of a psychiatric misdiagnosis can be both emotional and practical. When a condition goes untreated (or when inappropriate treatment is given) patients may experience a worsening of symptoms, increased risk of self-harm, or even long-term psychological trauma.
Inaccurate psychiatric labeling can also have serious social and professional consequences. Some individuals lose employment or professional licenses after being misdiagnosed with a severe mental disorder. Others are wrongly subjected to involuntary hospitalization or medication, violating their rights and eroding their trust in the healthcare system.
Conversely, patients who are denied an appropriate diagnosis may be left without the support, medication, or therapy they desperately need. This neglect can result in harm not only to the patient but also to family members and employers who depend on them.
When Legal Action May Be Possible
Not every psychiatric misdiagnosis rises to the level of malpractice, but legal action may be possible when a healthcare provider’s negligence directly causes harm. To bring a successful medical malpractice case in Maryland, a plaintiff must prove a professional duty existed, the provider failed to meet the accepted standard of care, and that failure caused injury or damages.
If a psychiatrist failed to perform a reasonable evaluation, it could be grounds for a malpractice claim. Compensation in psychiatric misdiagnosis cases can cover medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term therapy expenses. In some cases, it may also include damages for loss of reputation or unlawful confinement.
Because these cases are complex and involve competing medical opinions, working with a skilled Baltimore personal injury lawyer is essential. An attorney can help gather expert testimony, review medical records, and build a strong case to hold negligent professionals accountable.
Were you misdiagnosed? The attorneys at Iamele & Iamele, LLP can provide not only financial relief but also the sense of justice and closure necessary to begin the healing process. When you are ready to book a confidential appointment, simply contact us.
