It is quick, easy-to-use and is a structured method to describe, assess and observe your patient psychological functioning and mental state.

At the end of the MSE, you should have a relatively detailed description of key aspects of your patient mental state which should be written in a concise and paragraph like manner. It should be mentioned that an MSE should be made every time the patient comes and see the consultant/clinician. This is particularly useful as a history of MSE can then be made and compared to one another. By doing so, we can notice if things are improving or declining as a whole or in each segment of the MSE.

The MSE works hand in hand with the 4P factor model formulation; hence if you do both, you would a get a clear picture of your patient’s past and current life. This would allow the clinician to make a sound diagnosis, follow-ups, formulations and patient management for recovery. This includes the best course of action such as which therapy is needed, if medication needs to be started, if there is a need for referrals to certain support groups or specialists and so on. In a way, the MSE is the physical examination of the mind and is very useful, be sure to study and practise for a seamless and successful consultation!