Final answer:
DSM stands for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, published by the American Psychiatric Association. It is used by healthcare professionals to diagnose and classify mental disorders. Each edition reflects the latest research and understanding in the field of mental health.
Step-by-step explanation:
The acronym DSM stands for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. It is a publication by the American Psychiatric Association that provides a comprehensive classification and criteria for mental disorders. Each new edition of the DSM is updated with the latest findings in mental health research, including changes in symptoms and classifications of mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, major depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Clinicians use the DSM to diagnose psychological disorders, thereby guiding treatment plans and understanding the epidemiology of mental health.
Definition and Use of DSM
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) is essentially a handbook utilized by healthcare professionals as the authoritative guide to the diagnosis of mental disorders. The latest version, the DSM-5, includes criteria for diagnosing drug use disorders and provides a precise language for clinicians to communicate about mental health conditions.
The subject of mental health and mental illnesses is complex, and the DSM is an essential tool that contributes to a better understanding and treatment of these conditions. It's a continuously evolving document that reflects current understanding in the field of psychiatry and psychology.