Safe spaces are beyond just a tangible physical location; it is an environment free from fear, discrimination, and judgment. Unfortunately, safe spaces can be hard to find.
Sometimes, even the spaces we think are safe, can themselves pose a threat to our wellbeing, especially when our own concerns are dismissed or invalidated. This is sadly true, even in the medical field.
DC Journal published a study that concluded that 72% of women have experienced medical gaslighting, with 17% reporting being dismissed or having to prove their symptoms, leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes.
Women of color in particular face even greater disparities in treatment, exacerbating health inequalities and undermining women's overall wellbeing in the healthcare system. Some reports even indicate that there are instances of misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis because certain symptoms are being dismissed or downplayed.
Medical gaslighting is an issue that deserves more attention. Just because someone didn't believe you doesn't mean your concerns aren't real or valid.
What Is Medical Gaslighting, And How To Spot It
Medical gaslighting is a form of manipulation towards a patient’s experience. It can happen when a medical professional downplays, dismisses, or invalidates their patient's health concerns. Inappropriate blame or misattribution of the problem can also happen in the process of medical gaslighting.
Studies show that medical gaslighting occurs more frequently among women due to factors such as gender bias and gendered disinformation. And because the adjectives such as "dramatic," "hysterical," and "irrational" are often more associated with women, it makes it easier to dismiss them even regarding their health concerns. 'Ppower imbalance' is also a great factor in this.
VeryWell Mind tells us that these are the red flags to be aware of if you suspect medical gaslighting:
- When healthcare professionals "dismiss the patient's symptoms and fail to take their concerns seriously."
- When healthcare professionals "don't listen to the patient or constantly interrupt them."
- When healthcare professionals "laugh at their patients' concerns or suggest that what they’re experiencing is in their head."
- When healthcare professionals "lack empathy or sensitivity to a patient's pain or concerns."
- When healthcare professionals "blame the patient for their condition."
- When healthcare professionals "attribute the cause of a medical issue to a mental health condition."
What To Do To Avoid Medical Gaslighting
1. Do your research.
Researching doctors can be challenging, given that in the Philippines we do not have many platforms to see patient reviews. But it is worth the effort and is highly encouraged.
You can ask for recommendations from trusted friends and family. By doing so, you can learn from other patients' experiences and determine if a particular doctor is the right fit for you. In the Philippines, you can check Hello Doctor or The Filipino Doctor for feedback before setting up an appointment and consultation.
You can also do some background checks on their expertise in the field. This helps ensure you find a doctor who suits your needs and concerns.
2. Book an appointment with a trusted and recommended doctor.
When it comes to finding the right doctor for you, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Each patient is unique, and it is important to find a healthcare provider who understands and respects your individual needs and concerns. It is perfectly okay to seek a second opinion, or switch from one doctor to another until you find someone with whom you feel comfortable and safe with.
A supportive doctor will create a space where you can openly discuss your medical concerns without feeling judged or ashamed. This process might take time and persistence, but it is crucial for your health and wellbeing to find a doctor who genuinely listens to you, addresses your concerns, and provides the care you deserve.
3. Bring a trusted companion with you.
Two is better than one, especially when fear and self-doubt take over. Having someone who understands your concerns and is trustworthy enough to handle the matter with utmost confidentiality is invaluable.
Bringing a trusted companion with you to medical consultations and doctor appointments can help identify if your concerns are being dismissed or taken lightly. It also makes it easier to call out gaslighting behaviors in these situations.
