Development of Chinese mental health assessment guideline

Objective To discuss the development and content of Chinese mental health assessment guideline. Methods Following literature review, initial assessment items were outlined by authors.A questionnaire survey concerning assessment criteria was then conducted among the authorities in the field of psychology or psychiatry.A working group meeting was held to make the final decision. Results Ninety-five of 192 questionnaires were finally received, and those who knew much well about mental health accounted for 85.3%.Of 24 commonly used definition and criteria, 5 assessment criteria and 15 essential items were agreed to use for mental health evaluation in Chinese populations. Conclusion The development of Chinese mental health assessment guideline is important to modify mental health evaluation and health care services in China. Key words: Chinese; Mental health assessment criteria; Evaluation