Perceived Stress Scale (PSS)

Stress is the body's physical, mental, and emotional response to any demand or challenge, whether positive or negative. It is a natural reaction that can affect a person's mood, behavior, and physical health.

The PSS is an instrument that measures how the respondents perceive their levels of stress. It assesses how unpredictable, uncontrollable, and overloaded the respondents find their lives.

Question 1

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

Question 2

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

Question 3

In the last month, how often have you felt nervous and “stressed”?

Question 4

In the last month, how often have you dealt successfully with irritating life hassles?

Question 5

In the last month, how often have you felt that you were effectively coping with important changes that were occurring in your life?

Question 6

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

Question 7

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

Question 8

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

Question 9

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

Question 10

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

Question 11

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

Question 12

In the last month, how often have you found yourself thinking about things that you have to accomplish?

Question 13

In the last month, how often have you been able to control the way you spend your time?

Question 14

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