[header] How to write a mental health assessment [title] Gather background information from the patient. [step] Background information will help you to establish context for your assessment. Put the patient at ease so that the interview will be fruitful and informative. 
Maintain eye contact and make small talk so that the patient will be comfortable in providing the information you require for the assessment. [substeps] Some of the information will be basic, such as the patient's age, gender, and ethnicity.