ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV

A structured clinical interview for DSM-IV is like a puzzle game that helps doctors figure out if you have any mental health issues. Just like how you need to put the puzzle pieces in the right spots to make a picture, your doctor will ask you lots of questions to learn about your thoughts, feelings and behaviors.

They will ask you questions like, how much sleep do you get? Do you feel sad or anxious? Do you hear voices or see things that are not really there? By answering these questions, your doctor can identify which picture of mental health issues might match your symptoms!

Using this interview, doctors can diagnose and treat mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. It's like a magical tool that helps doctors help you get better!