The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) measures psychological distress across 10 questions. Used by Australian employers in healthcare, emergency services, and mining to screen for mental health suitability.
Overview
The K10 (Kessler Psychological Distress Scale) is a validated 10-item questionnaire that measures non-specific psychological distress over the past four weeks. Scores range from 10 to 50 and map to four severity bands: normal (10–19), mild (20–24), moderate (25–29), and severe (30–50). It is widely used in clinical and occupational settings across Australia.
For employers in high-risk industries — including healthcare, emergency services, mining, and security — the K10 provides a standardised baseline to identify candidates who may benefit from additional support or assessment before commencing in mentally demanding roles.
Refchecks delivers the K10 digitally as part of the candidate screening workflow. Candidates complete it via a secure link, and employers receive a scored report immediately. All results are handled in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 and applicable health information legislation.
What's Included
The K10 is endorsed by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and used in the National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing. Scientifically validated for detecting psychological distress.
Results are treated as sensitive health information under the Privacy Act 1988. Access is restricted to authorised HR personnel only, with full audit logging.
Candidates complete 10 simple questions about their emotional state over the past four weeks. No specialised knowledge required.
Results are scored automatically and mapped to severity bands. A clear report is delivered to the employer dashboard immediately upon submission.
Send the K10 to multiple candidates simultaneously. Track completion status and view results across your entire applicant cohort.
Process
The employer initiates the K10 check from the Refchecks dashboard. The candidate receives a secure link via email.
The candidate answers 10 questions rating their psychological distress over the past four weeks. Takes under five minutes.
Responses are scored automatically (10–50). The score is mapped to a severity band: normal, mild, moderate, or severe.
The employer receives the scored report on their dashboard. The report includes the total score, severity band, and individual item responses.
Turnaround & Pricing
Turnaround Time
Immediate upon candidate submission
Per assessment
From $15
Bundled pricing available when combined with other health assessments.
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