This screen checks for persistent low mood and mood instability, using symptom areas described in the DSM-5 (American Psychiatric Association, 2013) and brief screening approaches such as Shear and colleagues (2001). Source: DSM-5, APA (2013).
How to use it: Answer about the past two weeks honestly. It is a self-screen.
Reading your score: More symptoms endorsed suggests a professional evaluation is worthwhile. It flags risk, not a diagnosis.
Limitations: This is a self-report screening tool, not a diagnosis. Only a clinician can determine a diagnosis.
When to seek help: If low mood lasts most days for two weeks or more, or if you have thoughts of self-harm, contact a mental health professional or 988 (US) right away.
Related: Our PHQ-9 Mood Self-Check and Mental Health Help (US).