A psychiatric evaluation is part of diagnosing behavioral and emotional disorders.
The evaluation is assessed on present behaviors in relation to environmental and emotional factors. Information taken from a psychiatric evaluation helps to identify specific treatments, medications, and therapeutic services which may help develop individualized treatment plans. Thus, helping us here at Comprehensive Care Clinic to provide specific, individualized care for our mental health patients.
What is involved in a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation?
There are the common components of a comprehensive, diagnostic psychiatric evaluation. But, because every person has different experiences and needs, each evaluation is unique.
Psychiatric Assessments and Evaluations may include asking you questions and obtaining information about:
- Behaviors you portray
- Description of symptoms (physical and psychiatric symptoms) you may be experiencing
- Effects of behaviors or symptoms related to your physical environment, emotional effects, and work productivity
- Personal and family history of emotional, behavioral, or developmental disorders
- Your complete medical history
- Lab tests (in some cases) may be used to determine if an underlying medical condition is present. These tests may include blood tests, genetic tests, radiology studies to look for abnormalities (particularly in the brain structures), educational assessments, and psychological assessments
The Importance of Psychiatric Assessments and Evaluations
Psychiatric assessments and evaluations provide our psychiatric team of therapists, physicians, and specialists with the information they need to make accurate diagnoses. And, in turn, provide these diagnostic materials to case managers for accurate treatment planning.
Overall, psychiatric evaluations and assessments help to:
- Create accurate psychiatric diagnoses of mental health issues like depression, anxiety, addiction, and more.
- Assess symptoms to determine if they are mental or physical.
- Evaluate individuals for psychiatric issues that showcase themselves in aspects of daily life like in school, work, or at home.
Before Your Psychiatric Evaluation
It can be helpful to prepare for your psychiatric evaluation so you know what to expect. And, so that our team of mental health specialists can get the most accurate information from you to determine an accurate diagnosis.
Before your psychiatric evaluation, you can prepare by:
- Making a detailed list of all of the symptoms you’re experiencing, whether physical or mental
- Determine the thoughts and emotions that are challenging you
- Identifying if an event or trigger is something that brings about negative thoughts or emotions
- Keeping note of how long you have been experiencing symptoms
- Keeping note of how long symptoms usually affect you
- Listing any medications you may be taking
Having this information on hand is helpful in completing your psychiatric assessment and evaluation effectively. Furthermore, it may be helpful to ask a family member or loved one who knows about the symptoms you’re experiencing to come along with you for the evaluation. This way, if you forget to mention any specific symptoms, you have support in that way.
Getting Your Psychiatric Assessment and Evaluation from Comprehensive Care Clinic
Ready to finally understand what you’re experiencing as far as mental health symptoms? A psychiatric assessment and evaluation is the first step to getting the help you need to live a life of wellbeing. To learn more about our psychiatric assessment and evaluation, what to expect, and to schedule your appointment, contact us today.