History taking, an invaluable tool in expert hands

ABSTRACT

Background: History taking in psychiatry is perhaps the only method by which it is possible to reach a diagnosis. This requires initial training and constant practice and attempts to hone one’s skills that makes one a good clinician Objective: This paper describes different approaches involved in psychiatric history taking. Discussion: A well recorded history of the patient going into the nuances of the evolution of illness and its dynamics facilitates diagnosis and paves way for psychological therapies. Conclusion: The importance of history taking in psychiatry is highlighted. Constant practice of good history taking is helpful to a clinician during his practice and a post graduate student to create a good impression in his clinical examinations.