During your psychiatric evaluation, your physician may ask you to talk about your symptoms, how they affect your life and how long you’ve had them. You might discuss your family’s mental health history and your personal life – your relationships, what your childhood was like and if you’ve had any major traumas or losses in your past. You’ll also be asked about your general health history, your current medications and any drug and alcohol use. Because some physical conditions such as thyroid disorders can present similar symptoms to mental disorders, your physician may recommend blood work or another test. The initial screening may be followed by additional, more specific testing. These assessments are typically done in a behavioral health clinic to properly diagnose and treat the condition. Mercy behavioral health experts can perform necessary assessments. The goal is to provide an accurate diagnosis of your condition and to determine the best treatment plan.