The Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21) measures three distinct mental health domains across 21 items. More granular than the K10 — used in healthcare, education, and frontline services screening.
Overview
The DASS-21 (Depression Anxiety Stress Scales — 21 item version) is a validated psychometric instrument that measures three distinct mental health domains: depression, anxiety, and stress. Unlike the K10, which produces a single distress score, the DASS-21 allows clinicians and occupational health professionals to identify which domain is elevated and tailor support accordingly.
Each of the 21 items is rated on a four-point scale. Subscale scores are multiplied by two to align with the full DASS-42 normative data, producing scores on a comparable scale. Severity bands range from normal to extremely severe across each subscale.
Refchecks delivers the DASS-21 digitally as part of pre-employment health screening for roles in healthcare, education, emergency services, and other psychologically demanding environments. Results are reported to authorised HR contacts immediately upon completion.
What's Included
Measures depression, anxiety, and stress independently. Each subscale has its own severity rating — giving a more complete mental health picture than single-score tools.
The DASS-21 is used in clinical research and occupational settings worldwide. Norms are aligned to the full DASS-42, ensuring clinical comparability.
Results include scores and severity classifications for each of the three subscales, plus item-level responses for review by health professionals.
Candidates rate 21 statements about their state over the past week on a 0–3 scale. Straightforward, no specialist knowledge required.
Run DASS-21 across multiple candidates and compare results cohort-wide on the Refchecks dashboard.
Process
Select DASS-21 from the health assessment menu. Enter the candidate's email and send the secure assessment link.
The candidate rates each statement on a 0–3 scale reflecting their experience over the past seven days.
Depression, anxiety, and stress subscale scores are calculated automatically. Each is multiplied by two to align with DASS-42 norms and mapped to severity bands.
The employer receives a full subscale report on their dashboard. Severity bands (normal through extremely severe) are clearly displayed for each domain.
Turnaround & Pricing
Turnaround Time
Immediate upon candidate submission
Per assessment
From $18
Bundled pricing available when combined with K10 or other health assessments.
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