Psychological testing represents a series of assessments that allow psychologists to diagnose one of the stages of mental illness. The series of assessments also predict the potential for the development of future mental health issues. Psychological testing is not used exclusively in clinical and hospital settings. Nine out of 10 businesses use some form of psychological testing as a tool to screen job candidates.
In addition to diagnosing mental health issues, psychological testing also collects information that measures mental abilities, as well as uncovers strengths and weaknesses. After receiving the results of a series of assessments, a psychologist then develops a treatment plan, if one is required to enhance the mental health of a client. More comprehensive psychological assessments measure personality traits and the scientific components that define intelligence.
Many requests for psychological testing come from obvious signs that someone might need child or adult therapy. However, some clients exhibit unexpected signs that initially do not point to the need to assess mental health.
4 Unexpected Signs That Might Require Psychological Testing
You can request to complete a series of assessments that measure the status of your mental health at any time. Most requests stem from obvious and expected signs of the development of a mental health issue. You should learn about the four unexpected signs that might require psychological testing.
Unexplained Physical Symptoms
Some cases of mental health issues originate from the discovery of physical symptoms. For example, a client going through a highly stressful period might experience physical symptoms such as migraine headaches that eventually unveil much deeper mental symptoms that include fear, anxiety, and even depression.
A comprehensive physical examination should be completed before the completion of a series of psychological assessments.
Memory Loss
A conscious effort to suppress bad memories can lead to the development of memory loss for other matters. For example, a client suppresses the bad memories associated with losing a loved one, but the suppression spills over when you forget to follow through with verbal commitments. Someone who experiences mental health problems might have difficulty concentrating on the most ordinary tasks.
Ineffective Treatment
Sometimes, the first series of psychological assessments do not produce an accurate diagnosis of a mental health issue or issues. The client might withhold important information that a psychologist needs to make an accurate diagnosis. For example, an incorrect diagnosis turns into an ineffective treatment such as receiving the wrong prescription medication. An accurate diagnosis is an essential part of creating a helpful treatment program for a client dealing with mental health issues.
Cannot Take Care of Basic Needs
One of the shocking types of unexpected symptoms concerns suddenly being unable to take care of yourself. This type of unexpected symptom typically appears without any warning. One day, you are able to run errands and take care of household chores. The next day, you feel overwhelmed just tying your shoelaces.
Dealing with a mental health crisis can shut down everything in your world.