Discuss and describe the five axes of the DSM. Why are five axes necessary?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Axis I includes the disorders for which treatment is usually sought, conditions such as depression and panic
disorder. But describing a client with this diagnostic label alone is not sufficient, other disorders may be present
and an Axis I designation does not provide any information about how the client is currently functioning. Thus,
while an Axis I condition may be the presenting condition, it is important to also determine whether a personality
disorder or other lasting condition is present (Axis II), as well as any medical conditions (Axis III). While Axes I,
II, and III describe psychological and physical status, they do not address the nature of the environment in which
the client must function (Axis IV), nor do they address how the client is currently functioning (Axis V). Thus, in
order to develop an effective treatment plan, all 5 axes are needed.