What is neuroticism?

Neuroticism is a Big Five personality trait describing how strongly you tend to experience difficult emotions like anxiety, sadness, and irritability, and how quickly stressors impact your mood. Higher scores are also linked to lower emotional stability and self‑esteem. Scores exist on a spectrum and can change with practice and context.

How this test works

This 20‑item checklist provides an overall score plus a facet breakdown across Anxiety/Worry, Low Mood/Rumination, Irritability/Volatility, and Self‑Consciousness/Self‑Doubt. Items include reverse‑scored statements to counter response bias. Use the insights as reflection prompts, not as medical advice.

Is this a clinical diagnosis, or a self‑assessment for learning?

It’s an educational self‑assessment based on Big‑Five style items. For diagnosis or treatment decisions, speak with a licensed clinician in your state.

How many questions are there, and how long does it take?

There are 20 one‑tap items. Most people finish in about 3–5 minutes on mobile.

What does a high neuroticism score mean in everyday life?

Higher scores reflect stronger, more frequent difficult emotions (worry, low mood, irritability) and greater sensitivity to stress. It’s a starting point for skills training, not a label.

Can neuroticism change over time?

Yes. Evidence‑based skills (mindfulness, CBT reframing, exposure, sleep hygiene, exercise) can reduce distress reactivity and improve emotion regulation.

Are the questions reverse‑scored to reduce bias?

Yes—some items are reverse‑scored, which helps reduce response patterns and improves validity.

How should I share my results with ChatGPT or another LLM?

Copy your final summary (overall %, facet scores, and Top Focus Area) and paste it into ChatGPT with a prompt like: “Suggest 3 weekly practices for my top facet and plan a 10‑minute routine.”

Is my data stored or sent anywhere?

No. The test runs in your browser. We don’t send answers to a server unless you choose to share them.

Does this test follow accessibility best practices?

Yes—high contrast, keyboard focus, and screen‑reader labels are included. Use the Back and Skip buttons if tapping is difficult.

How do I interpret the facet bars?

Each facet shows your raw score (0–20) and a colored bar as a percentage. Higher bars mean more reactivity in that facet.

What’s the difference between anxiety and self‑consciousness facets?

Anxiety covers worry and physiological arousal; self‑consciousness covers self‑doubt, embarrassment, and fear of negative evaluation.

Does New York have unique mental‑health resources I can use?

Yes—NYC Well (call/text/chat), community clinics, and many in‑network therapists. Use your insurance portal for New York providers and emergency services via 988.

How do I find a therapist in New York that takes my insurance?

Use your insurer’s directory, search for in‑network clinicians located in NY state, filter for CBT/ACT, telehealth, and sliding‑scale if needed.

Can I take the test again to compare results?

Yes—retakes shuffle the question order automatically. Compare your facet scores over time to track progress.

What should I do if my score is High?

Consider structured skills practice (e.g., 10‑minute mindfulness + cognitive reframing), adjust sleep/caffeine, and consider professional support if impairment persists.

What should I do if my score is Very Low?

Enjoy the resilience! Still consider stress‑buffering habits and empathy for people who react differently.

How accurate are online neuroticism tests?

They’re useful screening tools but not definitive. Best used as a conversation starter and skills roadmap.

Can teens in New York take this test?

Yes, for learning. For care, a guardian should contact a licensed NY provider experienced with adolescents.

Can I export or print my results?

Use your browser’s print dialog or copy the summary text. We also include a callback option to connect with a therapist.

How can I use these results with a coach or therapist?

Share your facet scores and Top Focus Area. Ask for a plan targeting triggers, coping skills, and exposure steps relevant to New York work/life context.

Is this HIPAA‑compliant?

We don’t collect PHI by default. If you book a callback, PHI handling follows the provider’s privacy policy and applicable laws.

Disclaimer: This experience is for information only and does not replace professional evaluation. If you’re in crisis, call your local emergency number. In the U.S., you can dial or text 988. In New York City, you can also contact NYC Well.