Seminar: “Modern Methods for Screening Mental Disorders,” Part 1

On February 25, 2025, a training seminar for psychology students was held at the Institute of Psychiatry. The event was led by psychologist Svitlana Kaminska from the Center, who shared contemporary approaches to assessing patients’ mental health.

What was covered?
• Structured Interview Guide for the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (SIGMA) – an effective tool for assessing the severity and progression of depression.
• Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) – a method for evaluating the severity of manic episodes in Bipolar Affective Disorder (BAD).

Why is this especially important now?
According to WHO data, one in five military servicemembers returning from combat zones experiences pronounced symptoms of affective disorders. However, many do not seek help due to stigma or limited access to professional diagnosis and support.

Timely screening for mental disorders is a critical step toward accurate diagnosis and effective intervention.
We thank all the students for their active participation and thoughtful discussions!