[Toward the new classification of mental disorders--Polish psychiatrists' opinions about project of ICD-11]

Abstract

Aim: The World Psychiatric Association (WPA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) initiated a series of national surveys regarding the revision of the chapter on Mental and Behavioural Disorders of the ICD-10. They are part of the global and systematic studies providing input into the new classification of mental disorders (ICD-11).

Method: In Poland, the survey after translation and implementing was performed electronically in collaboration with the Polish Psychiatric Association (17 Jan - 22 Feb 2011). 206 psychiatrists presented their experiences and ideas regarding international and other classification systems.

Results: We present results from our national part of the survey. Psychiatrists called for simplifying the classification system, with less than 100 main categories in ICD-11. That would be beneficial for professionals, their clients and all other participants. Psychiatrists accepted both strict diagnostic criteria and flexible guidance in a classification manual. The independent severity axis should be implemented for all diagnoses. The functional status was considered to be a part of general diagnostic criteria. The dimensional scales were indicated as beneficial for the diagnostic process. Participants did not report any important problems with the cross-cultural applicability of existing classifications. The validity of some categories of ICD-10 was considered poor and their definitions should be reviewed, especially: schizotypal disorder, schizoaffective disorder, borderline personality disorder, dissociative/conversion disorders and some neurotic disorders.

Conclusion: The survey, as a part of truly international process, was the occasion to strengthen Polish psychiatrists' contribution regarding developing the new international classification (ICD-11).