Diagnostic manuals are standardized reference books used by healthcare professionals to identify and classify various medical conditions and mental health disorders. These manuals provide criteria and guidelines to help clinicians make accurate diagnoses, ensuring consistent and effective treatment approaches.
One of the most widely used diagnostic manuals is the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), published by the American Psychiatric Association. Another important resource is the International Classification of Diseases (ICD), maintained by the World Health Organization. Both manuals play a crucial role in research, education, and clinical practice.