Mental health conditions: what labels tell us, and what they do not

In short: A mental health diagnosis, such as depression or anxiety, groups people by their symptoms. It does not usually tell us what is happening in an individual person's biochemistry. That gap is what Bio Balance Health's education looks at. Diagnoses remain essential, because they help people get care and help researchers compare studies.

What labels do well

Diagnostic systems such as the DSM-5-TR and ICD-11 give doctors and patients a shared language. They help people access services, guide treatment decisions and allow research to be compared. A diagnosis made by a registered health professional is an important step in getting help.

What labels leave out

The DSM-5-TR is mainly a classification of symptoms. It gives limited guidance on what may be happening underneath, for example in a person's cells. Two people with the same label can have very different biochemistry, histories and needs.

Where biochemistry research fits

Researchers are asking whether measurable biochemical differences can add to a diagnosis, for example by helping explain why a person responds the way they do. Evidence varies for each marker. See Our research.

Common labels, in plain language

Select a term to read a short plain-language explanation:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Panic disorder
• OCD
• PTSD
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia and psychosis
• ADHD
• Autism
• Borderline personality disorder
• Insomnia

See all terms

Important

• A diagnosis can only be made by a registered health professional.
• Never stop or change medication without your doctor's advice.
• A "chemical imbalance" is a popular phrase, not a precise explanation. See Chemical imbalance.

Bio Balance Health is an education organisation. It is not a clinic or a medical practice and cannot give medical advice. In a crisis, call 000 or your registered medical professional.