OBJECTIVES: The HEALTH questionnaire, which originally consisted of 79 items, aims to assess generic aspects of psychosocial health. METHODS: Based on large clinical and healthy samples (n = 1548 psychotherapy inpatients, n = 5630 primary-care patients), the questionnaire was shortened and psychometrically analyzed. RESULTS: The resulting 49-item questionnaire ("HEALTH-49") comprises six discrete modules with nine scales (somatoform complaints, depressiveness, phobic anxiety, psychological wellbeing, interactional problems, self-efficacy, activity and participation, social support, and social stress). It proves to be well accepted and feasible under routine conditions. Factor analyses confirm the intended dimensional configuration and the relative independence of modules. The scales reveal high reliability. Evidence of their validity and sensitivity to change are demonstrated. CONCLUSIONS: The HEALTH-49 is a self-rating instrument that allows for the comprehensive and economic assessment of generic aspects of psychosocial health. It is highly suitable for use in clinical practice. The questionnaire is available as a free download from http://www.hamburger-module.de/
