DSM-5 Notes Psychology.

DSM-5 Notes (Psychology)

What is DSM-5?

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) is a handbook used by
psychologists and psychiatrists to diagnose mental disorders.

Published by the American Psychiatric Association

Full form: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition

Used worldwide in mental health settings




Purpose of DSM-5:

DSM-5 helps healthcare professionals:

•Identify mental disorders

•Standardize diagnoses

•Plan treatment

•Improve communication between professionals

•Support research studies




Main Features of DSM-5:

1. Diagnostic Criteria:

Each disorder has:

•Symptoms

•Duration requirements

•Severity levels

•Conditions for diagnosis

, Example: Major depressive disorder requires symptoms lasting at least 2 weeks.


2. Classification System:

Mental disorders are grouped into categories.

Examples:

•Anxiety disorders

•Mood disorders

•Personality disorders

•Neurodevelopmental disorders




3. Severity Levels:

Some disorders are classified as:

•Mild

•Moderate

•Severe




Major Categories in DSM-5:

1. Anxiety Disorders: A disorder characterized by excessive and persistent worry about daily
activities.

Examples:

•Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

•Panic disorder