Table 1 HIS case definitions for mental, neurological, and substance use disorders

Epilepsy/seizures

At least two episodes of seizures not provoked by any apparent cause such as fever, infection, injury, or alcohol withdrawal. Episodes are characterized by loss of consciousness with shaking of limbs, and sometimes associated with physical injuries, bowel/bladder incontinence, and tongue biting.

Alcohol/substance use disorder

Consumption of alcohol (or other addictive substances) on a daily basis with difficulties controlling consumption. Personal relationships, work performance, and physical health often deteriorate but consumption continues despite these problems.

Mental retardation/intellectual disability

Very low intelligence causing problems in daily living. As a child, this person is slow in learning to speak. As an adult, the person can work if tasks are simple. This person will rarely be able to live independently or look after themselves/children without support from others. When severe, this person may have difficulties speaking and understanding others and may require constant assistance.

Psychotic disorder

Hearing or seeing things that are not there, or strongly believing things that are not true. This person may talk to themselves, their speech may be confused or incoherent, and their appearance unusual. They may neglect themselves, but may also go through periods of being extremely happy, irritable, energetic, talkative, and reckless. This person’s behavior is considered “crazy” or “highly bizarre” by others from the same culture.

Severe emotional disorder

Daily functioning is markedly impaired for more than 2 weeks due to (a) overwhelming sadness/apathy and/or (b) exaggerated, uncontrollable anxiety/fear. Personal relationships, appetite, sleep, and concentration are often affected. The person may be unable to initiate or maintain conversations. The person may complain of severe fatigue and be socially withdrawn, often staying in bed for much of the day. Suicidal thinking is common.

Medical unexplained somatic complaint

Any somatic/physical complaint that does not have an apparent organic cause. Should only be applied (a) after conducting necessary physical examinations, (b) if the person is not positive for any of the other categories, and (c) if the person is requesting help for the complaint.

Other psychological complaint

This category covers complaints related to emotions (e.g., depressed mood, anxiety), thoughts (e.g., ruminating, poor concentration) or behaviors (e.g., inactivity, aggression). The person tends to be able to function in all or almost all activities of daily living. The complaint may be a symptom of a less severe emotional disorder or may represent normal distress not associated with a disorder.