I seriously think they should consider a DSM-IV category for midlife crisis (or whatever the h*ll this stuff is) because it's such a syndrome, so many predictable pathologies. With a diagnosis code, maybe it might be viewed as the devastating process that it is--and not the subject of jokes. And maybe even some treatment, if a medical model is used. Personally, I'd vote for electroconvulsive therapy.
Publication of the DSM V has been pushed back till 2013. That still gives you time to get a big pharma company in your back pocket and a few well-paid academics to make it happen. If you can't tell already, I'm seriously cynical of the writing process and even the value of the document itself.
Is mid-life crisis a "disorder", a "syndrome", or is it part of life? Sure we can identify common elements ("symptoms"?) but is it "wrong"? On the same thread, should teen-age angst be added too? How about bereavement? Homosexuality was listed as a "disorder" until 1973 when it was changed to "Sexual Disorders NOS" then 1986 it was removed entirely. Who decided it was "wrong"?
As a frequent psych customer (I wish I got frequent flyer miles) I ask myself the same question all the time - what's a normal part of life and what's over the edge? I've found the best psys are the ones who hold off on the labels.
"My actions are my only true belongings. I cannot escape the consequences of my actions. My actions are the ground upon which I stand." Thich Nhat Hanh
