Comprehensive diagnosis of neurotic and stress-associated disorders: a review of valid psychodiagnostic methods

Abstract

Introduction. According to a conducted study in collaboration with Gradus Research as part of the All-Ukrainian Mental Health Program “How are you?” in 2022–2023, initiated by Olena Zelenska, an assessment of mental health among Ukrainians was undertaken. Survey results revealed that 51% of respondents rated their mental state as average. In comparison with 2022 data, there is an increase in the percentage of those characterizing their state as unsatisfactory (from 8% to 11%) and a decrease in the proportion of those considering their state satisfactory (from 41% to 38%). These changes indicate a negative impact of Russia’s full-scale invasion into Ukraine on the mental well-being of Ukrainians. With the rising number of individuals expressing concerns about their mental health, there arises a necessity to enhance the diagnosis of stress-related disorders. According to the findings of this research, the majority of respondents, when asked “Have you ever sought the services of a mental health professional?” stated that they have never utilized the services of specialists (psychiatrist/ psychotherapist/psychologist). It is noteworthy that compared to the previous year, the percentage of individuals not ruling out the possibility of seeking a specialist’s help increased (from 34% to 42%), while the number of those who never plan to seek medical assistance from professionals in this field decreased (from 46% to 38%). Statistical data presented by the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that every fifth person who has experienced armed conflicts may encounter mental health problems. The increasing number of individuals in need of assistance in the field of mental health underscores the relevance of the issue of qualitative and comprehensive diagnosis of neurotic and stress-associated disorders. Objective. The aim of this study is a systematic review of scientific literature and valid psychodiagnostic methods aimed at studying neurotic and stress-associated disorders. Changes in mental health become increasingly noticeable among Ukrainians during the wartime, emphasizing the need for timely and qualified diagnosis of these conditions in accordance with the ICD-10 and DSM-5. Materials and Methods. In this review, open scientific sources related to the diagnosis of neurotic and stress-associated disorders were utilized. Analysis of scientific data was conducted using review, systematic, and content analysis methods. Relevant material was sought through the Google Scholar and PubMed databases, as well as open resources of the World Health Organization (WHO), the American Psychological Association (APA), and other official web portals of Ukraine, the USA, and the UK. Conclusion. Through the analysis of contemporary scientific literature and the study of valid psychometric methods, it can be concluded that the questionnaires presented in the article can serve as an effective tool for mental health professionals in the comprehensive diagnosis of neurotic and stress-associated mental disorders.