What might a mental health diagnosis include?

A mental health diagnosis typically includes a thorough evaluation, which involves gathering comprehensive patient history and reported symptoms. This process ensures that the clinician has a complete understanding of the patient's mental health, including any past diagnoses, treatments, and the current presentation of symptoms.

The evaluation encompasses not just the individual's subjective feelings but also observable behaviors, family history, and other relevant factors. This multifaceted approach helps in making an accurate diagnosis, which is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan tailored to the individual's needs.

In contrast, emphasizing only subjective feelings would limit the clinician's understanding and could lead to misdiagnosis. A random assessment without clear criteria lacks the structure and reliability necessary for proper diagnosis, potentially missing critical indicators of mental health disorders. Immediate prescription of medication may not be appropriate without first establishing a thorough understanding of the patient's condition based on comprehensive evaluation.