Introduction:
The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K6) gauges how frequently you felt six common negative emotions during the past thirty days. Each feeling is rated from “none of the time” to “all of the time,” producing a concise snapshot of current mental strain.
This assessment translates your six choices into a total score from 0 to 24 and highlights one of four evidence-based severity bands—low, mild, moderate, or severe. An interactive gauge and plain-language summary clarify what your number means.
Use the screen for quick self-reflection or to begin a conversation with a professional; *scores alone never replace qualified care*. **Results do not constitute a clinical diagnosis.**
Technical Details:
The tool sums six item ratings and maps the total to predefined severity bands drawn from population studies.
An in-browser reactive engine handles every calculation instantly; no network calls occur.
- Ratings range 0 – 4, higher means greater distress.
- Maximum possible total is 24.
- Severity bands: Low ≤ 7 · Mild 8 – 12 · Moderate 13 – 18 · Severe ≥ 19.
| Band | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Low | Minimal distress |
| Mild | Occasional strain |
| Moderate | Noticeable difficulty |
| Severe | High likelihood of impairment |
All processing stays on your device for maximum privacy and instant feedback.
Calculations & Scoring:
Each total score is derived from a single summation and then matched to a severity band.
Replace each variable with the selected value.
Add the six values to find the total.
Locate where your score falls within the range table.
Final Result
Your summed score determines your severity band and on-screen guidance.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Follow these steps exactly as labelled on the screen.
- Press the Start Assessment button.
- Read the first question displayed above the progress bar.
- Select one radio answer; your choice is saved instantly.
- Continue until the progress bar shows 100 %.
- Review your total, severity badge, and gauge chart.
FAQ:
Quick answers to common questions.
Is my data stored?
No. All answers stay in your browser and disappear when you close the page.
What does my score mean?
The number indicates current psychological distress level based on population norms; higher values suggest greater strain.
How often should I retake it?
Weekly or monthly repeats can track changes, but consult a professional for persistent concerns.
Can I share my result?
Yes. Use the browser’s print or screenshot tools to show your score to a professional or friend.
Does the tool give medical advice?
No. It provides educational information only and advises professional consultation when needed.
Troubleshooting:
Resolve common issues quickly.
- Nothing happens after clicking “Start Assessment” – refresh the page and try again.
- Progress bar freezes – ensure every question has one selected answer.
- Gauge chart missing – disable browser extensions that block scripts.
- Colors look odd in dark mode – switch your device to light theme for printing.
- Cannot scroll question list – reduce zoom level or increase window height.
Advanced Tips:
Enhance accuracy and usability.
- Answer instinctively; overthinking skews results.
- Retake at the same time of day for consistency.
- Use the encoded URL query to reopen previous answers.
- Print the answer table for record-keeping.
- Combine scores with mood diaries for richer insight.
Glossary:
Key terms used in this tool.
- Distress
- Emotional strain interfering with daily life.
- K6
- Six-item questionnaire measuring distress severity.
- Severity Band
- Category describing intensity level.
- Rating
- Value from 0 – 4 assigned to each feeling.
- Gauge Chart
- Semi-circular visual showing total score.