Frequently Asked Questions

The Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90) is a trusted mental health screening tool designed to help individuals better understand their emotional and psychological well-being. With 90 carefully designed questions, this assessment evaluates common symptoms like anxiety, depression, obsessive thoughts, and more. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed or simply curious about your mental health, the SCL-90 offers a quick and confidential way to check in with yourself and identify areas that may need support.

Q.

What is the SCL-90 symptom checklist?

A.

The SCL-90 (Symptom Checklist-90) is a mental health questionnaire used to screen for a wide range of emotional and psychological symptoms. It helps identify areas such as depression, anxiety, and stress.

Q.

What does the SCL-90 test measure?

A.

The SCL-90 measures symptoms across nine mental health categories, including depression, anxiety, somatization, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, and interpersonal sensitivity.

Q.

Who should take the SCL-90 assessment?

A.

Anyone experiencing mental health concerns or emotional distress can take the SCL-90. It’s useful for individuals, therapists, or researchers looking for insight into psychological symptoms.

Q.

How many questions are on the SCL-90?

A.

The SCL-90 contains 90 self-report items, each rated on a scale of 0 to 4, based on how much each symptom has bothered you in the past week.

Q.

How long does the SCL-90 test take to complete?

A.

Most people complete the SCL-90 in 12–20 minutes. It’s designed to be a quick yet thorough mental health screening tool.

Q.

Is the SCL-90 used for diagnosing mental illness?

A.

No, the SCL-90 is not a diagnostic tool. It screens for symptoms and helps professionals determine if further evaluation is needed.

Q.

Can I take the SCL-90 test online?

A.

Yes, the SCL-90 can be taken online through licensed mental health providers or secure mental health websites offering self-assessments.

Q.

Is the SCL-90 a reliable mental health tool?

A.

Yes, the SCL-90 is a clinically validated assessment used in psychology and psychiatry since the 1970s. It’s known for its reliability in tracking mental health symptoms.

Q.

How is the SCL-90 scored?

A.

SCL-90 scoring is based on average symptom severity in each category. Higher scores suggest more significant psychological distress and may warrant follow-up with a mental health professional.

Q.

Is the SCL-90 test private and confidential?

A.

When completed on a trusted platform or with a licensed provider, your SCL-90 responses and results remain confidential and secure.