The primary scale used for measuring depression and anxiety, alongside stress, is the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS). This widely recognized instrument provides a comprehensive assessment of these common negative emotional states.
Understanding the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS)
The DASS is a 42-item self-report instrument specifically designed to quantify the severity of depression, anxiety, and tension/stress experienced by an individual. It allows for a clear distinction between the symptoms of each condition while acknowledging their interconnectedness.
Key features of the DASS include:
- Self-Report Format: Individuals complete the questionnaire themselves, providing personal insights into their emotional experiences.
- Comprehensive Measurement: It assesses three distinct yet related negative emotional states:
- Depression: Captures indicators such as low mood, loss of interest, lack of motivation, and feelings of worthlessness.
- Anxiety: Focuses on symptoms like autonomic arousal, panic, and situational anxiety.
- Tension/Stress: Measures general stress levels, difficulty relaxing, irritability, and being easily agitated.
- Accessibility: The DASS questionnaire is in the public domain, meaning it is freely available and can be downloaded for use by researchers, clinicians, and individuals interested in self-assessment. Its accessibility contributes to its widespread application in various settings, from clinical practice to academic research.
For more information and to access the questionnaire, you can visit the official resource: Depression Anxiety Stress Scales - DASS.
