mental state examination

orchardpig wrote: Just had the decision through after my PIP face-to -face assessment. Needless to say they are reducing my benefits, so I'm in the process of asking for a "mandatory reconsideration".
In the decision letter, reference is made to a 'mental state examination". can anyone tell me what this is supposed to be? How do they evidence my mental state? is there a report on it?
Thank you for your help

The MSE tests used by assessors are very simplistic although this does not stop them placing unreasonable reliance on them, passing the tests does not mean that you have mental health issues and failing doesn't mean that you haven't

There are three tests that they use;

1. A memory test where you are ask to remember five items and then asked to recall them later in the interview.

2. A processing test where you are asked to count backwards from 100 in 7s, so 100, 93, etc.

3, A comprehension test where you are asked to explain what the linked activities mean.

There's no special report and the assessor is unlikely to go any farther that mention whether you passed or not in there assessment report.

Gordon