Where mental health classification is heading.
A living PHCF commentary hub covering major developments in DSM, ICD, RDoC, HiTOP and related approaches to psychiatric classification.
Current classification developments.
What is actually known about the “DSM-6”?
APA has published a roadmap for the future DSM. The emerging model is broader, more dimensional and more contextual than a simple categorical revision.
Read PHCF analysis → ICD-11 / WHOICD-11 and digital classification
WHO's latest release emphasises refined clinical content, extension codes, data quality and digital interoperability.
Read PHCF analysis → RDoC / HiTOPRDoC and HiTOP - different challenges to traditional categories
RDoC studies dimensions of functioning across units of analysis. HiTOP organises psychopathology empirically and hierarchically.
Read overview ↓PHCF should be positioned beside these systems, not above them.
NIMH describes RDoC as a research framework rather than a diagnostic guide. It studies fundamental psychological and biological systems across dimensions of functioning. HiTOP takes a different route, using empirical patterns to improve the organisation and measurement of psychopathology.
PHCF asks another question. Can positive mental health itself be classified in a clinically usable way that adds information beyond disorder, symptoms and functioning?
Clinical diagnosis
Current and future diagnostic classification, with increasing attention to dimensionality, context and transdiagnostic features.
Global health classification
A digital-first WHO classification used for reporting, clinical care, public health and research.
Research alternatives
Two influential approaches that challenge or extend conventional categorical thinking from different directions.
Current, sourced and clearly separated from PHCF claims.
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