First, the common methods of controlling the results of psychotherapy are presented and discussed with regard to their reliability (judgement on the basis of external criteria, judgement by others, judgement by the person concerned). From the criticism of psychological medicine's traditional health concept, whose only orientation is the individual patient, his efficiency and his well-being, the demand is derived to develop supplementary social-psychological criteria of mental health. Frequently, pseudo-remissions due to the formation of defence mechanisms are seen which, while making the patient appear less neurotic, weigh heavily upon his family and work colleagues, since the patient tries to involve them in his illness.