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DASS-21 — Depression, Anxiety & Stress Scale

The DASS-21 is a clinically validated self-report questionnaire used to measure depression, anxiety, and stress. It was developed by Lovibond & Lovibond (1995) at the University of New South Wales and is widely used by GPs and psychologists across Australia.

About this tool

Created by
Lovibond & Lovibond, 1995
Developed at
UNSW, Sydney
Used by
GPs, psychologists, researchers
Measures
Depression, Anxiety, Stress
Scoring
0–42 per subscale (doubled)
Diagnostic?
No — screening only

Score interpretation — what your results mean

SeverityDepressionAnxietyStress
Normal0–90–70–14
Mild10–138–915–18
Moderate14–2010–1419–25
Severe21–2715–1926–33
Extremely severe28+20+34+

Source: Lovibond & Lovibond (1995). UNSW Psychology Foundation cut-offs.

Important: This is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. It cannot replace a professional assessment. If your results concern you, please speak with a GP or mental health professional. In a crisis, call Lifeline 13 11 14 or 000.

For each statement below, indicate how much it applied to you over the past week. There are no right or wrong answers.

Results are calculated entirely in your browser. Nothing is sent anywhere.

Your Results

0Depression
Normal
0Anxiety
Normal
0Stress
Normal

What to Do Next

    Need to Talk to Someone?

    Lifeline

    13 11 14

    Beyond Blue

    1300 22 4636

    Sources & References

    AskMyGP
    Free Australian health tools & information
    What am I eligible for? How Medicare works Prepare for your GP visit What to bring to your appointment More free tools at askmygp.com.au →
    Information only, not medical advice.

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    Medical Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

    Screening Tools: All screening tools on this site (including DASS-21, K10, ASRS, and Burnout Assessment) are validated instruments provided for self-assessment purposes only. They are not diagnostic tests. Results should be discussed with a qualified health professional. Scores may not reflect your full clinical picture.

    Helpline Information: Helpline numbers and service details are verified regularly but may change. If a number does not connect, try an alternative service or call 000 in an emergency. We are not affiliated with any helpline or service listed on this site.

    Privacy: Your screening results, journal entries, and safety plan are stored in your browser only and never sent to any server. This site uses Google Analytics and may display advertisements. See our Privacy Policy for details.

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    Common Questions About the DASS-21

    Who created the DASS-21 and is it validated?
    The DASS-21 (Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale) was developed by Peter Lovibond and Sydney Lovibond at the University of New South Wales. It is a widely used, validated instrument in Australian clinical and research settings, giving three separate subscale scores rather than one combined score.
    Does a high DASS-21 score mean I have a diagnosis?
    No. The DASS-21 is a self-assessment screening tool, not a diagnostic test. A high score suggests it may be worth discussing your symptoms with a GP or psychologist, who can properly assess your situation — a score alone cannot diagnose depression, anxiety, or a stress-related condition.
    Where are my DASS-21 answers stored?
    Your answers and results are calculated in your browser and never sent to our servers. If you print or save your results to show a GP, that file exists only on your own device unless you choose to share it.
    Medical disclaimer: This site provides general health information and verified helpline numbers only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are in immediate danger, call 000. For mental health crisis support, call Lifeline 13 11 14. Always seek the advice of a qualified health professional with any questions regarding a medical condition. Helpline numbers verified June 2026. No AI-generated content is used on this site.
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