Scale Overview & Construct
42-item full-length measure of depression, anxiety, and stress over the past week. Each subscale has 14 items scored 0-3 (range 0-42 per subscale).
Purpose & Measurement Objectives
Instrument Specifications
Scientific Documentation & Psychometric Rigor
Internal Consistency & Reliability
Published studies consistently report high internal consistency (alpha generally above .80) for all three subscales.
Construct & Criterion Validity
Widely used and validated across clinical and non-clinical populations internationally since publication.
Academic Citations
Lovibond, S. H., & Lovibond, P. F. (1995). Manual for the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (2nd ed.). Psychology Foundation of Australia. See also: Lovibond, P. F., & Lovibond, S. H. (1995). The structure of negative emotional states. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 33(3), 335-343.
Academic Citation & Instrument Provenance
When referencing this instrument in research, academic theses, or clinical institutional audits, please cite the original author publication:
Governance, Boundaries & Ethical Use
Imported from the OpenScales open item-bank project. This specific digital implementation has not been independently clinically validated by PsiQ — scores are for self-reflection, research, and educational purposes only, and are not a diagnosis.
License: Public Domain (https://www2.psy.unsw.edu.au/groups/dass/DASSFAQ.htm#_3.__How_do_I_get_permission_to_use_). Citation: Lovibond, S. H., & Lovibond, P. F. (1995). Manual for the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (2nd ed.). Psychology Foundation of Australia. This is not a diagnostic tool. If you are in crisis or having thoughts of self-harm, please contact a licensed mental health professional or a crisis helpline in your country immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-42?
42-item full-length measure of depression, anxiety, and stress over the past week. Each subscale has 14 items scored 0-3 (range 0-42 per subscale).
How long does the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-42 take?
It takes about 17 minutes to answer all 42 questions. You can go at your own pace.
Is this test free, and is it available in Hindi?
Yes, it is free with a PsiQ account. The questions and answer options are available in English, Hindi and Hinglish.
Can this test diagnose a condition?
No. Online self-report scales are for self-reflection, education and research, not diagnosis. If you are worried about your mental health, please speak to a qualified mental-health professional.