What is the CIDI instrument used to measure?

The CIDI, or Composite International Diagnostic Interview, is a structured interview tool used for the assessment of psychiatric disorders as well as substance use disorders. It is designed to provide a comprehensive evaluation by employing standardized questions that cover a wide range of mental health conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and various forms of substance misuse.

The strength of the CIDI lies in its ability to facilitate an international standard for diagnosing these disorders, making it relevant across diverse populations and cultural contexts. In research settings, the CIDI can yield valuable data on the prevalence and incidence of both psychiatric and substance use disorders, contributing to a better understanding of public health needs and informing policy decisions.

Therefore, this instrument's dual utility in measuring both psychiatric disorders and substance use disorders supports the selection of the answer that encompasses both categories, highlighting its comprehensive nature in the field of mental health assessment.