Depression Test (PHQ-9)
The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) is a clinically validated screening tool used worldwide to assess the severity of depression symptoms. Answer 9 questions about how you have been feeling over the past 2 weeks and get instant results with personalised recommendations.
Important: This is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. It does not replace a professional clinical evaluation. If you are in crisis or having thoughts of self-harm, please contact a crisis helpline immediately.
PHQ-9 Score Interpretation Guide
The PHQ-9 scores range from 0 to 27. Each of the 9 questions is scored from 0 to 3, with higher scores indicating more frequent symptoms.
| Score Range | Depression Severity |
|---|---|
| 0 – 4 | Minimal depression |
| 5 – 9 | Mild depression |
| 10 – 14 | Moderate depression |
| 15 – 19 | Moderately severe depression |
| 20 – 27 | Severe depression |
Source: Kroenke K, Spitzer RL, Williams JB. The PHQ-9: validity of a brief depression severity measure. J Gen Intern Med. 2001;16(9):606-613.
About the PHQ-9 Depression Screening
The PHQ-9 is based on the diagnostic criteria for Major Depressive Disorder from the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition). It evaluates the frequency of depressive symptoms over the past two weeks.
Key Points
- -Used by primary care doctors, psychiatrists, and mental health professionals worldwide
- -Validated in multiple languages and across diverse populations
- -Takes only 2-3 minutes to complete
- -Can be used to monitor treatment response over time
- -A score of 10 or above is commonly used as the clinical threshold for further evaluation
- -This is a screening tool only — a definitive diagnosis requires clinical assessment
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PHQ-9 depression test?
The PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) is a clinically validated, 9-item self-report questionnaire used to screen for depression severity. Developed by Drs. Robert Spitzer, Janet Williams, and Kurt Kroenke, it is widely used by healthcare professionals worldwide to assess and monitor depression symptoms over the past two weeks.
How accurate is this online depression test?
The PHQ-9 has been extensively validated with a sensitivity and specificity of 88% for major depression at a score of 10 or above. However, an online self-assessment is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. Only a qualified mental health professional can diagnose clinical depression through a comprehensive evaluation.
How is the PHQ-9 score calculated?
Each of the 9 questions is scored from 0 (Not at all) to 3 (Nearly every day), giving a total score range of 0 to 27. Higher scores indicate more severe depression symptoms. The categories are: Minimal (0-4), Mild (5-9), Moderate (10-14), Moderately Severe (15-19), and Severe (20-27).
What should I do if I score high on this depression test?
If you score 10 or above, it is recommended to consult a mental health professional such as a psychiatrist or psychologist for a thorough clinical evaluation. A high score does not mean you have clinical depression — only a professional can make that diagnosis. If you are having thoughts of self-harm, please contact a crisis helpline immediately.
Can I take this test for someone else?
The PHQ-9 is designed as a self-report measure. While you can review the questions with someone, the responses should reflect the individual's own experience over the past two weeks. If you are concerned about someone, encourage them to take the test themselves or consult a healthcare professional.
How often should I take the PHQ-9 screening?
If you are being monitored for depression, your healthcare provider may recommend retaking the PHQ-9 every 2 to 4 weeks to track changes. For general screening, taking it once every few months or when you notice changes in mood, energy, or sleep patterns is reasonable.
Medical Disclaimer
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