What is the M5®?

The M5® is an effective screening tool for symptoms of anxiety or depression that may interfere with everyday functioning. It should not be used to make a diagnosis, but it can indicate when a formal mood assessment by a mental health professional is needed.

It…

• Is a rapid tool for measuring stress

• Is the first step for improving your mood

• Can be completed in less than one minute

• Was adapted from the validated BADS®, a measure of symptoms of anxiety and depression

• Is unique in that it assesses both anxiety and depression indicators

• Can be done in the privacy of one’s home

The Science

• Reliable and valid as a mood scale in any setting

• Sensitive to anxiety and depression symptoms

• Highly predictive of specific COVID-19 psychological burden

• Can be used as a self-assessment

• Also appropriate to be administered by professionals for telehealth or in-person visits

• To read about peer-reviewed science including the M5® click here

Next Steps

If you answer these items with complete honesty, the M5® can take your “stress temperature.”

• A score of 3 or higher may indicate a need for a more formal assessment from a mental health professional.

• One of the most effective methods to improve mood is to routinely complete working memory exercises like those found in the BCAT® Working Memory Exercise Book - Home Edition.

• To purchase your own book, visit our Bookstore or Amazon.com.