Relationship between dyspnea, fear, anxiety and depression in patients with mild acute respiratory distress syndrome

Table 1 Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale scoring criteria

Category	Anxiety total score (A)	Depression total score (D)	Explanation and recommendations
No symptoms	0 point to 7 points	0 point to 7 points	Within the normal range, indicative of typical mood fluctuations
Suspicious or mild	8 points to 10 points	8 points to 10 points	May indicate mild anxiety/depressive symptoms; recommended to monitor and re-evaluate periodically
Moderate	11 points to 14 points	11 points to 14 points	Indicates moderate anxiety/depressive symptoms; strongly recommended to seek help from a professional (e.g., psychiatrist or psychologist)
Severe	15 points to 21 points	15 points to 21 points	Indicates severe anxiety/depressive symptoms; immediate professional assessment and treatment are strongly advised