153. We’re Not Getting Sicker — We’re Overdiagnosed

In this episode of "People I Mostly Admire," Steve Levitt interviews neurologist Suzanne O'Sullivan about her work on psychosomatic disorders and overdiagnosis in modern medicine. O'Sullivan shares insights from her books, including stories of patients with functional neurological disorder and resignation syndrome, highlighting the complexities of diagnosing and treating illnesses with psychological origins. She discusses the potential for overdiagnosis in conditions like Lyme disease and long COVID, emphasizing the importance of the doctor-patient relationship and the need for a more balanced approach to medical care that considers both physical and psychological factors. The conversation also touches on the role of societal beliefs and cultural influences on the manifestation and perception of illness, as well as the potential negative impacts of medical labels on individuals' self-perception and well-being.