We use phrases like this a lot in mental health. What we are often describing is the absence of abnormality, often the reverse of whats documented would be significant if that makes sense?
Often the letter is the only record that exists of your appointment so if someone asks me to justify a decision (sometimes years later) i have to be able to remember specific details.
Well dressed/well kept/well presented= justification why it feels some one isnt self neglecting. Someone who was poorly dressed might be struggling and it be a symptom of relapse, or in need of further support. If people obviously arent washing then thats a big red flag. Things like odor, poor skin etc can also be a symptom of other medical needs including meds side effects
Pleasant/engaging/forth coming etc= usually means that they werent vague about family history and you feel you have an accurate picture. If someone sits and barely engages eg just nods or barely answers then theres more likely hood of cognitive issues, or low mood or simply that they dont understand whats happening, and that you might be missing important parts of the story. They might not be being honest with you (either willfully or due to not being able remember) so you might be less certain of the picture. It shows youve been able to have a full conversation with them about the treatment plan and that they are on board with this, rather than someone who doesnt agree the treatment being offered (for example if youre referred for another dr, they know how to start the appointment eg if youve been referred for physio and your enthusiastic about this or think its a load of bollocks so need more explanation or a different approach when you arrive) or is dubious about it.
Things like normal speech tone, pace etc seem odd to note, but thats a stark difference from someone showing the symptoms of a manic episode where they are talking non stop, speaking too loud and not interuptable, or signs of depression which impacts speech too
It can be the difference from seeing two patients who rate their mood as 3/10 and have come for help with depression. One of whom comes in open and honestly, is well dressed with make up on and is forthcoming, and wants to engage with therapy and suggested it themselves. The other comes in, struggles to make eye contact, looks like they havent showed in week, havent been able to wash, and is mono sylabic and ambivalent about therapy
Obviously they arent the be all and end all and make up doesnt mean someone isnt depressed
Equally they can be describing factors
Weight is an indicator of other issues eg hormones and thyroid. As well impacts prescribing levels and need to monitor side effects of meds or need to look at things like blood pressure
Things like anxious etc indicates someone might need more gentle handing or more explanation rather than a blase attitude at next appt