What is the DSM-5 Level 2 Cross-Cutting Symptom Measure?

The DSM-5 Level 2 Cross-Cutting Symptom Measure provides detailed follow-up assessment for symptoms identified in the Level 1 screening, offering more specific symptom measures for targeted psychiatric domains.

Who developed the DSM-5 Level 2 and when?

Developed by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) as part of the DSM-5 diagnostic system, published in 2013.

What type of assessment is the DSM-5 Level 2?

It is a self-report follow-up questionnaire administered after Level 1 to provide more detailed symptom assessment.

What domains does it assess?

• Depression (PHQ-9 items)
• Generalized Anxiety (GAD-7 items)
• Mania (Altman Self-Rating Mania Scale items)
• Irritability (Affective Reactivity Index items)
• Anorexia Nervosa (EDE-Q items)
• Psychosis (Prodromal Questionnaire items)
• Repetitive Thoughts and Behaviors (YBOCS items)
• Dissociation (DES items)
• Personality Functioning (LPFS items)
• Somatic Symptoms (PHQ-15 items)
• Suicidal Ideation/Behavior (C-SSRS items)
• Substance Use (ASSIST items)

How many items and what format?

Variable number of items (23-87 total) rated on domain-specific scales assessing symptoms over the past 2 weeks.

How is it scored?

Domain-specific scoring with clinical thresholds for each measure.

Who can use the DSM-5 Level 2?

Adults (18+) who have completed Level 1 screening and need detailed follow-up assessment.

What are the strengths of the DSM-5 Level 2?

Official DSM-5 measure, detailed symptom assessment, evidence-based, comprehensive follow-up.

What are the limitations of the DSM-5 Level 2?

Time-intensive, requires Level 1 completion first, not diagnostic by itself.