Distress
Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10)
A 10-item screen for non-specific psychological distress.
About this test
The K10 measures general distress. It asks about anxious and low feelings over the past four weeks. A higher score means more distress.
What your score means
| Score | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 10–19 | Likely to be well |
| 20–24 | Mild distress |
| 25–29 | Moderate distress |
| 30–50 | Severe distress |
About this questionnaire
The K10 is a freely available screening questionnaire. We present it exactly as published and add a plain-language explanation of your result.
It is for education and self-reflection, not a diagnosis — a score is a snapshot, not a label. If your result worries you, talk to a qualified professional. See how we choose and check our tests and our editorial standards.
Further independent, authoritative sources on this topic:
Related screenings
K6Kessler Distress Scale (K6)ASRS-v1.1Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS Screener)ASI-3Anxiety Sensitivity Index-3 (ASI-3)
Source: Kessler et al. (2002). Freely available for use.