Legal Definitions - mental examination

A mental examination is a type of assessment that evaluates a person's mental health and cognitive abilities. It is also known as a psychiatric examination.

During a mental examination, a healthcare professional may ask questions about a person's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. They may also perform tests to assess memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.

For example, a mental examination may be conducted on a person who is experiencing symptoms of depression, such as sadness, loss of interest, and fatigue. The healthcare professional may ask questions about the person's mood, sleep patterns, and appetite. They may also administer a depression screening test to assess the severity of the symptoms.

Another example is a mental examination that is conducted on a person who has experienced a traumatic event, such as a car accident or natural disaster. The healthcare professional may ask questions about the person's emotional response to the event, such as fear, anxiety, or helplessness. They may also assess the person's ability to cope with the stress of the event.

In summary, a mental examination is a type of assessment that evaluates a person's mental health and cognitive abilities. It is used to diagnose mental health conditions and develop treatment plans.