Introduction:
The Depression Anxiety Stress Scale 21 (DASS-21) screens three core aspects of emotional wellbeing over the previous week. Each facet—depression, anxiety, and stress—is represented by seven behaviour-centred statements answered on a four-point frequency scale.
This online questionnaire guides you through all 21 items, instantly totals each sub-scale, doubles raw scores for compatibility with the original 42-item norms, and labels results with internationally recognised severity bands. A responsive summary chart appears once every question is answered.
Complete the check-in during quiet moments to gain a snapshot of current mood patterns; *scores fluctuate with circumstances, so repeat assessments after major life changes for context.* **Results do not constitute a clinical diagnosis. Seek professional advice if concerned.**
Technical Details:
Each answer is stored in browser memory, mapped to its construct, and recalculated whenever you select a new option.
Score computation workflow
- Capture radio input as 0-3 integers
- Group values by construct key
- Sum raw totals for each construct
- Multiply raw totals by 2
- Compare to severity thresholds
Construct | Thresholds (Normal→Extremely Severe) |
---|---|
Depression | 0-9, 10-13, 14-20, 21-27, 28-42 |
Anxiety | 0-7, 8-9, 10-14, 15-19, 20-42 |
Stress | 0-14, 15-18, 19-25, 26-33, 34-42 |
All calculations run client-side; no answers leave your device, ensuring instant performance and privacy.
Calculations & Scoring:
Each sub-scale follows the same three-step procedure shown below.
Depression
Add the selected values for all depression-tagged items.
Doubling normalises scores against the 42-item benchmark.
Compare the doubled score with table limits to label severity.
Final Result
A doubled score of 24 falls in the Moderate range.
Anxiety
Gather values for anxiety-tagged statements.
Doubling standardises results.
Map to the anxiety threshold table.
Final Result
A doubled score of 16 is classed as Moderate.
Stress
Collate scores for stress-tagged items.
Doubling aligns with the original norms.
Use the stress threshold table for classification.
Final Result
A doubled score of 20 sits in the Moderate band.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Follow these steps to complete the survey and view your results.
- Press the Begin Assessment button.
- Select the first statement’s answer using the radio choices labelled 0-3.
- Watch the progress bar fill as you proceed through each item.
- Use the list on the right to revisit any unanswered question.
- After the final answer, review the score badges and stacked chart.
- Scroll down to read personalised guidance beneath the results.
FAQ:
Common questions about using and interpreting this tool.
Is my data stored?
No. All answers remain in your browser memory and disappear when the tab closes.
Who created the DASS-21?
The questionnaire was developed by Australian researchers to measure emotional states in adults.
How often should I retake it?
Many users retest weekly or after significant life events to observe trends rather than single points.
What if my score is high?
Consider discussing results with a qualified mental-health professional for tailored advice.
Can scores be compared with friends?
Scores are personal snapshots; comparisons may mislead because stressors and coping resources differ.
Troubleshooting:
Resolve common problems quickly.
- Page shows blank chart — ensure all 21 items are answered.
- Progress bar stuck — refresh and restart; answers reload from the link if bookmarked.
- Accidentally clicked the wrong choice — select the correct option; scores update instantly.
- Browser zoom hides buttons — reset zoom to 100 % for full layout visibility.
- Mobile scroll jumps — lift finger briefly to allow the question list to re-centre.
Advanced Tips:
Enhance tracking and insight.
- Bookmark the results URL to revisit or share with a therapist.
- Record weekly scores in a spreadsheet to visualise long-term trends.
- Combine scores with sleep or exercise logs for richer context.
- Use a stylus on tablets for faster selection.
- Print the answers table for offline discussion.
Glossary:
Key terms used throughout the tool.
- DASS-21
- Short form of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale.
- Raw score
- Sum of selected item values before doubling.
- Severity band
- Category describing how elevated the score is.
- Sub-scale
- One of the three measured constructs.
- Norms
- Reference scores from large population samples.