Distress
Kessler Distress Scale (K6)
A 6-item screen for non-specific psychological distress.
About this test
The K6 is the short form of the Kessler distress scale, measuring non-specific psychological distress over the past 30 days. A total of 13 or more is a common threshold suggesting probable serious distress.
What your score means
| Score | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 0–4 | Low distress |
| 5–12 | Moderate distress |
| 13–24 | Serious distress |
Frequently asked questions
What does the K6 measure?
General (non-specific) psychological distress based on recent anxiety and depressive feelings over the past 30 days.
What score is a concern?
A total of 13 or more is a common cutoff suggesting probable serious mental distress.
Related screenings
K10Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10)ASRS-v1.1Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS Screener)GAD-2GAD-2 Anxiety Screener
Source: Kessler et al. (2002, 2003). Freely available.