Final answer:
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) published by the American Psychiatric Association is the primary diagnostic tool for mental health diagnoses, complemented by the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) for psychological assessment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The diagnostic tool that identifies mental health diagnoses is the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), published by the American Psychiatric Association. The most current edition is the 5th edition, known as DSM-5. This manual is widely accepted in the United States and many other countries as the principal guide for diagnosing mental disorders. The DSM characterizes and categorizes mental disorders to improve diagnoses, treatment, and research. It gives a standardized language and criteria for the classification of mental health conditions.
Additionally, the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) is another robust tool used for the psychological evaluation and is especially useful in different contexts like clinical, employment and legal settings. It helps in the assessment of personality traits and psychopathology. This self-report inventory has evolved over time from its original version to the revised MMPI-2 and its subsequent version, the MMPI-2-RF, which is shorter and takes less time to complete.
These tools are essential for healthcare professionals to ensure accurate diagnoses and to aid in providing effective treatment plans for those suffering from mental disorders.