Sometimes, it can be difficult to tell if your emotions and behaviors are typical and expected, or if they’re a sign of a greater mental health concern. Are your feelings of nervousness a normal reaction to your situation, or are you dealing with an anxiety disorder? Is your insomnia related to your mental state, or do you have an underlying physical illness? How long is “too long” to feel sad?
There are no straightforward answers to these questions. Only a qualified mental health professional can provide you with an accurate diagnosis. And the first step toward obtaining a diagnosis is completing a mental health assessment.
What to Expect During a Mental Health Assessment
A mental health assessment is a thorough evaluation of your physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. Assessments can be performed by primary care physicians, psychiatrists, or psychologists who are extensively trained in identifying the signs of mental health disorders.
In general, mental health assessments involve the following:
- Physical exam
Before a mental illness can be diagnosed, it’s necessary to rule out any underlying physical causes of your symptoms. To do this, your doctor will perform a full physical exam, as well as order blood work, x-rays, or any other tests they may feel necessary.
- Questionnaires
Next, your care provider will ask questions to get a sense of what your daily routine and lifestyle involve – for example: your marital status, your employment, your family life, and your habits. They’ll also inquire about your personal history and medical history to identify sources of trauma, stress, or substance abuse concerns.
- Mental health screening
Finally, your doctor will conduct interviews to evaluate your mental and emotional state. As you describe your thoughts, feelings, reactions, and coping strategies, your doctor will listen to what you’re saying while also observing your physical appearance and behaviors for insight into your mental health.
Diagnosing Mental Illness
When it’s time to make a diagnosis, your doctor will consult The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, also known as the DSM-5. Published by the American Psychiatric Association, the DSM-5 is considered the conclusive resource for identifying the symptoms and criteria of various mental illnesses.
Since there’s no definitive way to determine a mental health diagnosis through biological or physical characteristics, it’s important to see a highly qualified mental health professional who can use their experience and knowledge to connect your behavioral and emotional symptoms to the correct condition. Obtaining an accurate diagnosis is important for both you and your doctor, because it helps to determine an effective treatment plan, so you can move forward and live a healthy, satisfying life.
Next Steps in Mental Health Treatment
After you’ve been diagnosed with a mental illness, you may feel worried or confused. Your doctor is there to answer any questions you may have and will help educate you about your condition. Learning as much as you can will empower you to take control.
Your treatment plan will be customized to fit your specific needs, and may include some combination of talk therapy, medication, and group counseling. As time goes by, your care team will reevaluate your condition and assess your progress. If necessary, adjustments will be made to ensure you’re on the path toward a healthier, happier life.
Diagnosis and Treatment for Mental Illness at Alvarado Parkway Institute
If you or a loved one are struggling with your mental health, Alvarado Parkway Institute in San Diego can help you get the treatment you need. For over 35 years, we’ve been diagnosing and treating mental illness and co-occurring addictive disorders, and we offer both inpatient and outpatient care in a safe, therapeutic environment. We’re dedicated to helping each of our patients overcome the challenges of mental illness through customized treatment plans and aftercare services.
To make an appointment for a mental health assessment, call us at (619) 485-1432 today.
