How do psychologists test for mental illness?

A physical examination, lab tests, and psychological questionnaires may be included, often to rule out other illnesses. As all of this information is obtained and integrated, the professional will begin to determine if the person’s symptoms match up with one or more official diagnoses.

How do psychologists evaluate mental health?

A mental health evaluation gives a doctor, counselor, psychologist or other licensed professional a picture of the way a person feels, reasons, thinks and remembers. Through a series of questions and physical tests, a professional can diagnose a number of mental disorders.

What is an example of malingering?

For example, someone might pretend to be injured so they can collect an insurance settlement or obtain prescription medication. Others may exaggerate mental health symptoms to avoid criminal convictions. More specific examples of malingering include: putting makeup on your face to create a black eye.

What questions are asked in a mental health evaluation?

Your doctor will ask questions about how long you’ve had your symptoms, your personal or family history of mental health issues, and any psychiatric treatment you’ve had. Personal history. Your doctor may also ask questions about your lifestyle or personal history: Are you married? What sort of work do you do?

Can you lie on a psychological evaluation?

You can always lie to people in the psychological field. Some assessments have qualifiers written into them to detect when someone is lying, so you may or may not get caught depending on the assessment.

What is somatic disturbance?

Somatic symptom disorder is diagnosed when a person has a significant focus on physical symptoms, such as pain, weakness or shortness of breath, to a level that results in major distress and/or problems functioning. The individual has excessive thoughts, feelings and behaviors relating to the physical symptoms.