What is a Mental Health Evaluation?
What is a Mental Health Evaluation?A mental health evaluation is a test conducted by a mental health professional that is used to determine a person’s level of cognitive ability, including psychological, social, and developmental interactions.
Mental health evaluations help diagnose whether a person’s symptoms are caused by a neurological disorder or disease, potential drug or alcohol abuse, or other reasons. A mental health evaluation may be prompted if a person is experiencing changes in their sleep habits, mood, or feelings of anxiety.
Psychological conditions or mental health disorders that are assessed during an evaluation can include:
- Depression, anxiety, and mood disorders
- Eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, and others)
- ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)
- PTSD (Post-traumatic stress disorder)
- Drug and alcohol abuse or addictive disorders
- Bipolar disorder
- Schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders
How are Mental Health Evaluations Performed?
ProcessAn initial mental health evaluation can be performed by a general medicine physician. They consist of a physical examination and a discussion of past medical history, and a list of present prescription medications.
The doctor will ask questions about any family history of mental illness or mental health disorders. In some instances, a written questionnaire may be part of the mental health evaluation. The answers to all the doctor’s questions should be truthful so their diagnosis can be as accurate as possible. A typical mental health test takes about 6 to 8 hours to complete and is usually given over a period of two to three visits.
During the discussion of mental illness symptoms, the doctor will observe a patient’s speech patterns, mood, and eye contact; some indication about a person’s state of mind can be surmised by watching their body language. The doctor’s observations will be noted and recorded for future reference.
The doctor will ask questions about alcohol or drug use and about a person’s feelings, beliefs, goals, and desires will be included.
Following an interview with the doctor, blood and urine tests may be ordered if a physical cause, like a B12 vitamin deficiency or anemia, is suspected. A thyroid function test, testing of electrolyte levels, and nervous system tests may also be requested. Further tests such as MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), EEG (electroencephalogram), or a CT (computed tomography) scan could be required if further investigation of brain function is needed.
Once these mental health assessments are concluded, the doctor will determine if a patient should be referred to a psychiatrist or other mental health practitioner.
Some mental health problems or conditions can be difficult to diagnose. A psychiatrist may administer a test called the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE); this test contains questions designed to measure a person’s mental perceptiveness. Psychological evaluations include discussions with a psychologist about sleep difficulties, anxiety, causing physical harm to oneself, or a person’s thoughts about themselves.
Preparing for a Mental Health Evaluation
PreparingJotting down thoughts and feelings is helpful for some people who are scheduled for a mental health assessment. Some thoughts or symptoms a person might make a note of are:
- Mental health symptoms – how long they have them and how long they typically last
- Destructive thoughts and behaviors to themselves or others
- Situations that aggravate a person’s well-being
- Goals and expectations surrounding therapy
- Substance abuse issues, including a list of prescription and illicit drugs
A person can bring along a family member or friend for emotional support.
What to Expect After a Mental Health Evaluation
What to Expect AfterOnce a mental health evaluation is completed, a psychiatrist will review the results to make recommendations for treatment and referrals. The treatment plan following an evaluation depends on the severity of the mental health condition or the possibility of a person causing harm to themselves or other people.
Some people are admitted to treatment programs which can include intensive, 24-hour support. Others benefit from treatment plans that include therapy, medication, or both.
Some patients will continue their ongoing treatment for many years. This treatment can include psychotherapy, counseling services, psychiatric treatment, medication, occupational, speech, and language therapy, along with intensive behavioral health treatment programs.
If it is determined that a patient is at risk for harming themselves or others, involuntary treatment may be required to protect the patient or others from harm.
Receive a Mental Health Evaluation at NewYork-Presbyterian
NewYork-Presbyterian mental health services are conveniently located at our medical group locations throughout the New York metropolitan area, including Westchester County. Feel confident that your mental health concerns are our priority.
Our medical groups offer same-day appointments for critical needs, and easy scheduling with early, late, and weekend hours. Referrals to NewYork-Presbyterian specialists, patient portals, and video visits are available. Some situations can be addressed through a video visit alone