Back to contents

Medical Gaslighting

5 months ago / by Team SEEMA

Female patients of color often have their symptoms dismissed. Here’s expert advice to keep you safe

Patients who have felt their symptoms were inappropriately dismissed as minor or primarily psychological by doctors are using the term “medical gaslighting” to describe their experiences and sharing their stories on social media. The term derives from a play called “Gaslight” about a husband’s attempt to drive his wife insane. And many patients, particularly women and people of color, describe the search for accurate diagnosis and treatment as maddening.

Studies show female patients of color are more likely to have their symptoms misdiagnosed by medical providers. In the January issue of SEEMA, find out more about medical gaslighting and how to protect yourself.

Subscribe to SEEMA Magazine today to access this story and the rest of our brand new January issue.