Mental Health Diagnostic Criteria

Mental health diagnostic criteria are standardized guidelines used by professionals to identify and classify mental health conditions. They involve assessing symptoms, their severity, duration, and impact on daily life. For example, a diagnosis requires that certain symptoms are present over a specific period, causing significant distress or impairment. These criteria help ensure consistent, accurate understanding of mental health issues, guiding effective treatment and support. They are based on recognized classifications like the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) or ICD (International Classification of Diseases).