Explored the psychosocial problems experienced by 582 patients attending a primary care unit in Saudi ArabiSs completed the Self-Reporting Questionnaire and an Arabic translation of a short social problems questionnaire. The 2 questionnaires were particularly useful with newly registered patients and with those who were reticent to discuss their problems, particularly those relating to intimate relationships, with the doctor. Use of the questionnaire seemed to enhance patients' sense of satisfaction that their health needs were receiving adequate attention. Such instruments are valuable research tools that can be utilized in a number of settings to estimate the prevalence of mental and psychosocial problems.