The DSM-IV-TR (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual IV Text Revision) uses a five level diagnostic system to classify illnesses

es and disorders. When considered together, these 5 levels give the treatment provider a complete diagnosis that includes factors influencing your psychiatric condition. This is important for effective treatment planning. The five levels of the DSM are called axes and are defined as follows: Axis I is reserved for clinical disorders and developmental and learning disorders. Disorders that may be present on Axis I include: Panic Disorder Generalized Anxiety Disorder Social Phobia Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Specific Phobia Axis II is for personality disorders or mental retardation. Disorders that may appear on Axis II include:

Borderline Personality Disorder Histrionic Personality Disorder Dependent Personality Disorder Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder

Axis III is for medical and/or physical conditions or disorders. For example:

Hyperthyroidism Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP)

Axis IV indicates factors contributing to, or affecting, the current psychiatric disorder and treatment outcomes. These include:

Lack of an adequate support system Social issues Educational problems Problems with work Financial difficulties Legal problems Other psychosocial and environmental problems

Axis V is for the GAF or global assessment functioning. This is a 100-point scale that the mental health professional uses to describe the patients overall level of performance in usual daily activities and social, occupational, academic and interpersonal functioning.