Articles
Mental health: What's normal, what's not
Why is it so tough to tell what's normal?
What is the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)?
How do mental health providers diagnose mental health conditions?
Content
What is mental health?
How are mental health disorders defined?
How do mental health professionals diagnose disorders?
When is an evaluation or treatment needed?
What is the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)?
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) is a guide published by the American Psychiatric Association that explains the signs and symptoms of several hundred mental health conditions.
Mental health providers use the DSM to diagnose everything from anorexia to voyeurism and, if necessary, determine appropriate treatment. Health insurance companies also use the DSM to determine coverage and benefits and to reimburse mental health providers.
