Subjective Units of Distress (SUD) Score

The Subjective Units of Distress (SUD) Score, also known as the Subjective Units of Distress Scale (SUDS), is a self-reported measure used in clinical practice to assess the intensity of distress or discomfort a person is experiencing at a given moment. Developed by Dr. Joseph Wolpe in 1969, this scale ranges from 0 to 10, with 0 indicating no distress and 10 representing the highest level of distress imaginable.

Key Features of the SUD Score

• Self-Reported: The SUD score is subjective, relying on the individual’s perception of their own distress.
• Simple and Quick: The scale is easy to understand and can be quickly administered, making it practical for both clinical and research settings.
• Flexible Use: It can be used across various settings, including mental health, pain management, and during exposure therapy for anxiety and phobias.

• Despite their common use, there has been limited empirical research on SUDs.
• SUDs are particularly useful for assessing current and past distress levels in children and young people.

The SUD score is particularly useful in monitoring changes in distress levels during therapeutic interventions. For instance:

• Exposure Therapy: In treating anxiety disorders, therapists use the SUD score to gauge the patient’s distress...