Background
Dysthymia Test is an interactive version of the Deenz Persistent Depressive Disorder Scale (DPDS), designed to measure subclinical traits associated with Persistent Depressive Disorder.
This self-assessment is based on the preliminary version of the research paper. In 2013, with the publication of DSM-5, Dysthymia became officially recognized as Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD). Persistent Depressive Disorder is characterized by a chronic depressed mood that continues for extended periods of time. Symptoms may be less severe than Major Depressive Disorder but tend to persist for much longer durations.
Persistent Depressive Disorder is a complex condition that may coexist with anxiety disorders, personality disorders, and other mood-related difficulties. The development of DPDDS-30 was based on literature review, DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, pilot testing, and expert review. The scale was developed to measure depressive tendencies across multiple dimensions commonly associated with chronic depressive experiences.
While the scale may help identify tendencies associated with persistent depressive symptoms, it is not intended to provide a clinical diagnosis. Only a qualified mental health professional can determine whether diagnostic criteria are met.
Procedure
The assessment consists of 30 statements and typically requires 5–7 minutes to complete. Participants respond to statements describing emotional experiences, social functioning, motivation, self-perception, and depressive symptoms.
Participation
This assessment is intended for adults and older adolescents interested in understanding depressive tendencies and emotional functioning. Participation is completely anonymous and no personally identifying information is collected.
Scoring & Interpretation
The assessment contains 30 items scored on a five-point response scale. Responses are calculated to produce a raw total score ranging from 0 to 120, with higher scores indicating stronger persistent depressive tendencies.
Results include an Overall Index Score and scores for six dimensions:
• Persistent Sadness
• Hopelessness
• Low Self-Worth
• Social Withdrawal
• Motivation Deficit
• Emotional Distress
Dimension scores are standardized to a 0–100 scale and interpreted using qualitative categories.
Deenz Persistent Depressive Scale (DPDS) Questionnaire
Below is the Deenz Persistent Depressive Scale (DPDS), a digitally adapted 30- items self-assessment questionnaire. Please read each statement carefully and indicate how much you agree or disagree based on your typical experiences over time.
Sources
Dar, Deen Mohd. Development and Validation of the Deenz Persistent Depressive Disorder Scale (DPDDS-30).Version History
2025-04-10|v1.1|Updated interpretation framework.
2026-06-07|v1.2|Integrated into DrDeenz Psychometric Engine.
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