As a part of the National Health Insurance Study, the Mental Health Inventory (MHI) is a method for evaluating mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, behavioral control, positive effect, and general distress. This instrument helps in the measure of overall emotional functioning.
The Mental Health Inventory includes 18 items in which the respondent uses a 6-point Likert-style response and it can generally be done without help. The test takes approximately 5-10 minutes to administer. There is an abbreviated version of the MHI which has only 5 items.
Author
C. T. Veit and J. E. Ware, Jr.
Obtaining the MHI
Validity and Reliability
According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, the Mental Health Inventory has a reported .93 Cronbach alpha rating whereas its abbreviated version has .82. This test is well-known and has been field tested in extensive populations. Also, the Mental Health Inventory showed a high correlation rating with MSQLI, or Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life Inventory.
References
Parks, J., Svendsen, D., Singer, P., Foti, M. E., & Mauer, B. (2006). Morbidity and mortality in people with serious mental illness. Alexandria, VA: National Association of State Mental Health Programs, National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors, Medical Directors Council.
Russell, S. T., & Joyner, K. (2001). Adolescent sexual orientation and suicide risk: Evidence from a national study. American Journal of Public Health, 91(8), 1276-1281.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2005). Community integration for older adults with mental illnesses: Overcoming barriers and seizing opportunities. Rockville, MD: Center for Mental Health Services). DHHS Publication No. SMA 05-4018.
Ware, J. E., Snow, K. K., Kosinski, M., Gandek, B. (1993). SF-36 health survey manual & interpretation guide. Boston, MA: New England Medical Center.
