Mental Status Examination
The Mental Status Examination (MSE) is a structured assessment used by healthcare professionals to evaluate a person's cognitive, emotional, and psychological functioning. It includes observations of appearance, behavior, speech, mood, thought processes, and insight. The MSE helps identify any mental health issues and guides treatment decisions.
During the MSE, clinicians may ask questions about the individual's orientation to time and place, memory, attention, and judgment. This examination is crucial for diagnosing conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, or schizophrenia. The results contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the patient's mental health status.