DSM-IV

DSM-IV, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, is a guide used by mental health professionals to accurately identify and categorize mental health conditions. It provides standardized criteria and descriptions for a wide range of mental illnesses, helping clinicians ensure consistent diagnoses and effective treatment planning. The manual covers issues like depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia, offering a common language for understanding mental health problems. Although mostly used by professionals, its goal is to improve communication, research, and care for individuals experiencing mental health challenges.