Welcome to the DASS-21

Overview

The DASS-21 is a shortened version of the original DASS, consisting of 21 items designed to measure the severity of three interrelated emotional states: depression, anxiety, and stress. It is widely used in both clinical and research settings as a quantitative measure of psychological distress, providing valuable insights into the continuum of these emotional states.

What Does the DASS-21 Measure?

Depression Scale: Evaluates feelings of dysphoria, hopelessness, devaluation of life, lack of interest or pleasure, and other indicators of low mood and reduced energy.

Anxiety Scale: Measures symptoms such as autonomic arousal, skeletal muscle tension, situational anxiety, and subjective feelings of fear and worry.

Stress Scale: Assesses cognitive and emotional tension, including difficulty relaxing, irritability, agitation, and sensitivity to stressors.

References

Developer: Lovibond, S.H. & Lovibond, P.F. (1995). Manual for the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales. (2nd. Ed.) Sydney: Psychology Foundation.https://doi.org/10.1037/t01004-000

Henry, J.D. and Crawford, J.R. (2005), The short-form version of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21): Construct validity and normative data in a large non-clinical sample. British Journal of Clinical Psychology, 44: 227-239. https://doi.org/10.1348/014466505X29657

Disclaimer

Please note that this assessment is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose any mental health conditions or replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is a tool for self-reflection and personal growth. If you have concerns about your mental health, we recommend consulting a qualified healthcare professional.