What DASS-21 is and how to read your result
DASS-21 (Depression Anxiety Stress Scales) is a short, 21-item questionnaire that measures symptom severity across three independent scales: depression, anxiety, and stress. It was developed by psychologists Peter and Syd Lovibond at the University of New South Wales in 1995.
The test reflects your state over the past week and helps you see which of the three areas weighs on you most. It’s not a diagnosis but a reference point: it shows what deserves attention and whether it makes sense to seek support.
What the test measures
- Depression. Low mood, loss of interest and pleasure, a sense of meaninglessness, low self-worth, and lack of energy.
- Anxiety. Physical arousal, situational anxiety, bodily symptoms of fear, and the feeling that something bad is about to happen.
- Stress. Chronic tension, irritability, difficulty relaxing, and heightened reactivity.
Frequently asked questions
What is the DASS-21 test?
DASS-21 (Depression Anxiety Stress Scales) is a short, 21-item questionnaire that measures the severity of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms over the past week. It was developed by psychologists Lovibond and Lovibond in 1995 and is widely used in clinical practice and research worldwide.
Can DASS-21 results give me a diagnosis?
No. DASS-21 is a screening tool: it helps assess your state and spot warning signs, but it does not replace a consultation with a specialist and is not a medical diagnosis. If your result worries you, reach out to a psychologist or psychotherapist.
How long does the test take and do I need to register?
The test has 21 questions and takes about 5 minutes. No registration, email, or payment is required — it is free and anonymous, and you see your result immediately after finishing.
How is the DASS-21 score calculated?
The statements are grouped into three scales — depression, anxiety, and stress. The score for each scale is summed and doubled, then compared against established cut-offs: normal, mild, moderate, severe, and extremely severe.
Source of the method: Lovibond, S.H. & Lovibond, P.F. (1995). Manual for the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales. 2nd ed. Sydney: Psychology Foundation.
Method reviewed by: Mikhail Kumov · 2026-05-25