The SCOFF questionnaire is a brief five‑item screening tool designed to identify potential eating disorder symptoms. Its name is an acronym formed from key words in each question: Sick, Control, One Stone, Fat, and Food. Developed in the United Kingdom, it is widely used in primary care and university settings because it takes only a minute to administer and has been shown to detect anorexia and bulimia with reasonable accuracy.
Tick each statement that resonates with your recent experiences around eating and body image. When you press Calculate, the script counts how many boxes are checked. Two or more positive responses suggest a possible eating disorder and warrant further evaluation by a healthcare professional. The SCOFF is not a diagnostic tool—it simply helps highlight potential concerns so you can seek advice if needed.
Eating disorders often hide in plain sight. Many individuals appear to maintain a normal weight yet struggle secretly with unhealthy behaviors. Early detection leads to more successful treatment outcomes. The SCOFF questionnaire offers a confidential way to reflect on your relationship with food. If the score indicates risk, sharing the result with a doctor, therapist, or dietitian can be a crucial first step toward recovery.
Although simple, the SCOFF does not capture every nuance of disordered eating. It tends to focus on classic symptoms of anorexia and bulimia, so other conditions like binge-eating disorder may not trigger a high score even when professional help would be beneficial. Cultural differences in language and attitudes can also affect how questions are interpreted. Consider the SCOFF a conversation starter rather than a definitive measure.
If you score two or higher, reach out to a qualified medical or mental health provider who specializes in eating disorders. They can conduct a comprehensive assessment that looks at physical health, nutritional intake, and psychological factors. Early intervention often includes counseling, nutrition education, and sometimes medication. Friends and family who express concern about your eating habits or self-image can be valuable allies in seeking help.
Whether you are taking this screener for yourself or someone you care about, fostering a supportive environment is key. Avoid negative comments about body shape or weight, and emphasize healthy eating in a positive, nonjudgmental manner. Recovery from an eating disorder typically requires both medical guidance and emotional support. Use the SCOFF score as a prompt to open honest discussions and encourage compassionate help-seeking.
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