https://www.theguardian.com/news/2026/feb/10/what-i-see-in-clinic-is-never-a-set-of-labels-are-we-in-danger-of-overdiagnosing-mental-illness

Very interesting article in the Guardian by Dr Gavin Francis - a GP writing about his experience of mental health presentations. The article provides a perspective on the historical development of mental health understandings, as well as cultural approaches and as he sees it (I am inclined to agree) an over-reaching for diagnosis and classification at the expense of a more holistic understanding. As he puts it:

"...we need less rigid classification, and more curiosity and kindness, humility and hope."

> A psychoanalytic approach to assessment and treatment brings both curiosity and a feeling-centred approach (one that Dr Francis now uses) to the task of understanding patients deeply. There is a focus on unconscious processes in this type of treatment, which experience has shown me in work with adults and children, can help us to understand the root of the emotional and mental health challenges we face.