This book should not even exist, because a "quick diagnosis of mental disorders" is a contradiction in terms. At first glance, a quick diagnosis of mental disorders seems impossible because the correct diagnosis and understanding of mental illness requires a careful, comprehensive assessment that takes time and expertise.

Mental disorders are complex and multifaceted, often influenced by a mixture of genetic, biological, psychological and environmental factors. This complexity means that symptoms that at first glance appear to be associated with a particular disorder may actually be an expression of another disorder or even have multiple diagnoses at the same time.

But this is only one side of the coin. People who notice abnormalities in themselves or other people don't always go straight to the doctor.

It may be that everything is half as bad, and anyway: anyone who tries to get a first appointment with a specialist in a western industrialised country as a person with normal health insurance usually has to wait a long time. What's more, the person concerned may not even want to see a doctor.

In an age in which information is quickly and easily accessible everywhere, the understandable desire for immediate understanding and categorisation of one's own symptoms or those observed in others is growing. This goes hand in hand with an increasing destigmatisation of mental illness and a heightened public interest in mental health.

At the same time, there is a trend towards self-help and personal responsibility in health matters. Many people want to actively contribute to their recovery or at least inform themselves before seeking professional advice.

This desire for empowerment is closely linked to recognising the importance of early detection and prevention in mental health care. This guide, which promises rapid categorisation of symptoms, is a useful tool for identifying problems at an early stage and taking appropriate steps.

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