The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) is a 10-item validated questionnaire that measures the degree to which life situations are perceived as stressful. It was developed by Sheldon Cohen in 1983 and is the most widely used psychological instrument for measuring perceived stress.

Each question is rated 0-4. Questions 4, 5, 7, and 8 are positively worded and are reverse-scored (0→4, 1→3, etc.). The total score ranges from 0-40. Higher scores indicate higher perceived stress.

What does my score mean?

Scores 0-13 indicate low stress. Scores 14-26 indicate moderate stress, which is the average range. Scores 27-40 indicate high perceived stress. The PSS measures perception, not objective stressors — two people with the same life events may score very differently.

How is PSS-10 different from GAD-7 or PHQ-9?

The PSS measures general perceived stress, not specific clinical conditions. GAD-7 screens for generalized anxiety disorder, and PHQ-9 screens for depression. Someone with high PSS scores may or may not meet criteria for an anxiety or depressive disorder.

Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10)

A validated 10-question screener for perceived stress over the past month.

Questionnaire

1. In the last month, how often have you been upset because of something that happened unexpectedly?

2. In the last month, how often have you felt that you were unable to control the important things in your life?

3. In the last month, how often have you felt nervous and stressed?

4. In the last month, how often have you felt confident about your ability to handle your personal problems?

5. In the last month, how often have you felt that things were going your way?

6. In the last month, how often have you found that you could not cope with all the things that you had to do?

7. In the last month, how often have you been able to control irritations in your life?

8. In the last month, how often have you felt that you were on top of things?

9. In the last month, how often have you been angered because of things that were outside of your control?

10. In the last month, how often have you felt difficulties were piling up so high that you could not overcome them?

About the PSS-10

The PSS asks about feelings and thoughts during the last month. It measures how unpredictable, uncontrollable, and overloaded you find your life. It is not a diagnostic tool but a useful indicator of stress levels that may benefit from intervention.

Reducing Perceived Stress

Evidence-based stress reduction techniques include regular exercise, mindfulness meditation, adequate sleep (7-9 hours), social connection, time in nature, and cognitive reframing. If stress is significantly impacting daily functioning, consider professional support.

PSS-10 Score Interpretation

Score RangeLevelInterpretation

0-13LowLow perceived stress

14-26ModerateAverage stress — consider management techniques

27-40HighHigh perceived stress — seek support

Medical Disclaimer

The PSS-10 is a screening instrument for perceived stress and does not provide a clinical diagnosis. It is intended for educational and self-awareness purposes only. If you are experiencing significant stress, anxiety, or difficulty coping, please consult a healthcare professional.

Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10)

About the PSS-10

Reducing Perceived Stress

PSS-10 Score Interpretation

Medical Disclaimer

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

Track Your PSS-10 Score Over Time