Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS)
Self-report disability scale across work/school, social and family/home domains (Sheehan 1996). Each domain 0–10 visual analogue. Total 0–30.
Score interpretation
Within the functional remission range used in trials (total ≤ 6 with no item above 2; Sheehan 2008).
→ Continue current management. Reassess if symptoms change.
Higher totals mean greater impairment; the total has no published severity bands. Read each domain on its anchors: 1–3 mild, 4–6 moderate, 7–9 marked, 10 extreme.
→ Optimise treatment and target the most impaired domain (workplace adjustments, social and family support). Specialist review if any domain is marked or extreme, or impairment is worsening; address suicide risk and substance misuse.
Interpretation bands for the Sheehan. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Acute Behavioural Disturbance / Rapid Tranquillisation · RCEM 2022; RCPsych 2022; NICE NG10
- Self-Harm Presentation · NICE NG225 (2022)
- Capacity Assessment (Mental Capacity Act) · MCA 2005; Code of Practice
- Acute Psychosis Management · NICE CG178 2014
- Depression Management · NICE CG90 2022
- Lithium Therapy Monitoring · NICE CG185
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.