Deenz Persistent Depressive Scale (DPDS)

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.

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.

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.

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.

I find it hard to remember a time when I felt genuinely happy.

I often get irritated, even over small things.

I often feel tired, no matter how much I rest.

I no longer enjoy hobbies or activities I used to love.

I find it hard to maintain close relationships.

I often blame myself, even for small mistakes.

I often feel hopeless about the future.

I find it difficult to find motivation to do things, even daily tasks.

I find myself withdrawing from social activities and avoiding people.

I often feel guilty, even without any reason to feel that way.

I have experienced a noticeable change in my eating habits or weight.

I struggle to focus on tasks.

I have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep at night.

I often feel overwhelmed by life's challenges.

I often feel misunderstood by others.

I stopped setting goals for myself.

I frequently feel a sense of worthlessness.

It is difficult for me to express my emotions to others.

I often criticize myself, even when others praise or appreciate me.

I feel like I'm just going through the motions in life.

I lost interest in maintaining my physical appearance.

I avoid seeking help or support because I feel unworthy of it.

I struggle to find joy in the success of others.

I am often preoccupied with negative thoughts about myself.

I feel a constant sense of sadness or emptiness.

I feel like I'm always waiting for something bad to happen.

I feel like I'm a burden to others.

I lost interest in romantic or sexual relationships.

I am often indecisive, even about small, everyday choices.

I struggle to find reasons to look forward to the future.