Psychiatric Diagnosis
Psychiatric diagnosis is the process of identifying and categorizing mental health disorders based on a set of diagnostic criteria. The primary purpose of psychiatric diagnosis is to guide treatment decisions and improve outcomes for individuals with mental health conditions. Psychiatric diagnosis is typically based on a comprehensive evaluation of an individual's symptoms, medical and psychiatric history, and current functioning. Diagnostic criteria are outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), which is published by the American Psychiatric Association.
The DSM includes diagnostic criteria for a range of mental health conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, substance use disorders, and psychotic disorders, among others. The diagnostic criteria are based on observable symptoms and behaviors, as well as subjective experiences such as thoughts and feelings.