Whether you are facing a mental health diagnosis on your own or you are required to undergo an evaluation related to a court case, the idea of undergoing a psychiatric evaluation might be stressful.

If you still have questions about how a psych eval works, this information will help you understand the process.

You'll Speak With a Mental Health Professional

Most psych evals involve meeting with a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or social worker. During the evaluation, you will have the opportunity to discuss your history and current mental state with the evaluator.

The evaluator may ask questions related to symptoms you have been experiencing and any past mental health issues you have had. You may also be asked questions about your family's mental health history, lifestyle, and relationships.

You'll Complete Standardized Questionnaires

Many psych evaluations involve completing one or more standardized questionnaires. These questionnaires are designed to provide the evaluator with additional insight into your mental health and functioning.

The questions on these tests may ask about your current level of depression, anxiety, stress, and other areas of mental health. It is important to answer these questions honestly in order to get the most accurate evaluation possible.

Some questionnaires may also be used to determine your cognitive functioning. Evaluators may use these tests to assess your memory, ability to concentrate, and ability to process information.

The Evaluator Will Make an Assessment

After speaking with you and completing questionnaires, the evaluator will make an assessment of your mental health. This may involve diagnosing a mental health disorder, such as depression or anxiety.

In other cases, the evaluator may simply recommend that you receive further evaluation or treatment. In some cases, the evaluator may also recommend medication to help manage any mental health symptoms you are experiencing.

After completing the evaluation, the evaluator will provide a written report outlining their assessments and recommendations. This report can be used by a medical professional or will be handed to a legal team based on the purpose of your evaluation.

You May Attend a Follow-Up Visit

Depending on the outcome of your psych eval, you may be asked to attend a follow-up visit. This visit can help the evaluator track your progress and make any necessary adjustments to treatment.

Psychiatric Evaluations Can Improve Your Situation

Although a psychiatric evaluation might be intimidating, it can actually improve your situation. These evaluations help diagnose and treat any mental health issues you are experiencing and provide important information to legal teams or medical professionals.

Contact a psychiatrist for a psychiatric evaluation today.