What is the Birleson Depression Self-Rating Scale?
The Depression Self-Rating Scale (DSRS) was developed by child psychiatrist Peter Birleson in 1981 to help spot depression in children. It uses 18 short, child-friendly sentences — about sleep, energy, enjoyment, crying, loneliness and feeling bored — that a child rates as true most of the time, sometimes, or never. Some sentences describe good feelings and some describe difficult ones, and the scoring takes this into account.
The total score ranges from 0 to 36. A score of 15 or more is the commonly used cut-off suggesting that depression is possible and a closer look is worthwhile.
Who should take it?
The scale was designed for children and young teens, roughly aged 7 to 14. It is best completed by the child, with a parent or carer nearby to read the sentences aloud or explain a word if needed — without suggesting an answer. Parents who have noticed their child seeming sad, withdrawn, irritable or tired for a while may find it a helpful first step.
How to take it
Find a quiet, relaxed moment. Ask your child to think about the past week and choose the answer that feels true for them for each sentence. Reassure them that there are no right or wrong answers. It takes about five minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Does this test diagnose depression in my child?
No. It is a screening questionnaire. Only a qualified child mental health professional can make a diagnosis after talking with your child and your family.
Should I answer on my child’s behalf?
Ideally no — the scale is meant to capture how the child sees things. You can help by reading the sentences aloud, but let them choose the answer.
What if my child says life isn’t worth living?
Take it seriously, whatever the total score. Stay calm, listen, and seek help from a child mental health professional soon. If you think your child is in immediate danger, contact your local emergency services.
What does your result mean?
- 0 – 14Below the depression cut-offNo notable signs
- 15 – 36Possible depressionWorth seeing a child specialist
Your result is not a diagnosis, it is an indicator. A therapist reads it together with your whole story.
Medical review and sources
Rights: Depression Self-Rating Scale © Peter Birleson (1981). Used with permission.