I found it hard to wind down
FAQs
What is the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21)?
The DASS-21 is a comprehensive self-report measure that assesses three related negative emotional states: depression, anxiety, and stress.
Who developed the DASS-21 and when?
Developed by Lovibond and Lovibond in 1995, refined from the original 42-item DASS.
What type of assessment is the DASS-21?
It is a self-report questionnaire providing dimensional assessment of psychological distress.
What does the DASS-21 assess?
- Depression: Dysphoria, hopelessness, devaluation of life, self-deprecation, lack of interest/involvement, anhedonia, inertia
- Anxiety: Autonomic arousal, skeletal muscle effects, situational anxiety, subjective experience of anxious affect
- Stress: Difficulty relaxing, nervous arousal, easily upset/agitated, irritable/over-reactive, impatient
How many items and what format?
21 items (7 per scale), rated on a 4-point severity scale (0-3).
How is the DASS-21 scored?
Each scale scored separately, then doubled to match DASS-42 norms. Ranges: Depression (0-42), Anxiety (0-42), Stress (0-42).
Who can use the DASS-21?
Adults and adolescents (14+) in clinical, research, and community settings.
What are the strengths of the DASS-21?
Distinguishes between depression, anxiety, and stress; excellent psychometric properties; brief and comprehensive.
What are the limitations of the DASS-21?
Not a diagnostic tool; requires clinical interpretation for treatment planning.