ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Psychological evaluation

A psychological evaluation is like going to the doctor, but instead of checking your body, they check your mind. The doctor will ask you questions, make you do some activities and games, and then try to understand how you think, feel and behave.

They want to know how you are doing emotionally and mentally, and if you face any difficulties in life, like feeling sad, anxious or angry. They will also want to know how you handle different situations, like school, homework, or playing with friends.

The doctor will use different tests and tools to help figure out how you are doing. They might ask you to draw pictures, remember stories or solve puzzles. All of these activities help the doctor know how your brain works, and how you make decisions.

After the visit, the doctor will write a report that explains how you are doing and what you need help with. They might suggest doing some exercises, practicing relaxation techniques, or recommend talking to a therapist.

Overall, the goal of a psychological evaluation is to help you, the patient, feel better, happier and more capable of handling life's challenges.