Which manual is commonly used for diagnosing mental disorders?

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, often referred to as the DSM, is the standard classification of mental disorders used by mental health professionals. This manual provides a comprehensive framework for understanding various mental health conditions through standardized definitions and criteria. It is widely utilized in the field for both diagnosing and researching mental health disorders, ensuring consistency and reliability in diagnosis.

The DSM offers specific diagnostic criteria, prevalence, risk factors, and cultural considerations for different mental illnesses, making it an essential resource for clinicians, researchers, and educators. It serves as a vital reference point that guides the clinical assessment and informs treatment plans for mental health issues.

The other options, while they may refer to various aspects of mental health or substance abuse, do not have the recognized authority or widespread usage of the DSM in diagnosing mental disorders. The DSM remains the definitive manual embraced by the psychiatric community for its detailed and empirically backed approach to mental health diagnostics.