What does Axis 5 assess in the context of a psychiatric diagnosis?

Axis 5 is specifically designed to assess a patient's ability to function in daily life, which is often referred to as the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF). This axis evaluates the individual's overall level of functioning, considering various aspects such as social relationships, work performance, and self-care. By focusing on how well a patient manages everyday tasks and activities, it provides valuable insight into the impact of mental health conditions on their daily life. This assessment helps clinicians understand not just the symptoms presented by the patient but also the functional impairments that may affect their overall quality of life.

In contrast, other axes, such as those related to physical health or acute symptom severity, focus on different aspects of health and diagnosis, making them less relevant when specifically discussing Axis 5. The role of family support systems also pertains to social dynamics but does not directly address the individual's functional capability as Axis 5 does.