Depression Test (PHQ-9)

Take the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), the most widely used depression screening tool in clinical practice. 9 questions, takes about 2 minutes. Your answers are 100% private and never leave your browser.

Ad Space

What Is the PHQ-9?

The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) is a clinically validated self-report instrument developed by Drs. Robert Spitzer, Janet Williams, and Kurt Kroenke with a grant from Pfizer. It is based on the nine diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder from the DSM-5. The PHQ-9 is used worldwide by primary care physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, and researchers as a reliable depression screener. It has been translated into over 80 languages and is in the public domain.

Medical Disclaimer: This is a screening tool, not a clinical diagnosis. A high score suggests you may benefit from speaking with a qualified mental health professional. Only a licensed provider can diagnose depression. If you are having thoughts of self-harm, please contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline immediately by calling or texting 988.

Signs of Depression

Depression is more than feeling sad. Common signs include persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed, changes in appetite or weight, sleeping too much or too little, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating, and in severe cases, thoughts of death or self-harm. Symptoms must persist for at least two weeks and cause significant distress or functional impairment to meet diagnostic criteria.

When to Get Help

If your PHQ-9 score is 10 or above, or if depression symptoms are affecting your daily functioning, consider scheduling an evaluation with a mental health professional. Depression is one of the most treatable mental health conditions. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, antidepressant medication, and lifestyle changes are all effective treatment options. Early intervention leads to better outcomes.

How Scoring Works

Each question is scored from 0 (not at all) to 3 (nearly every day), giving a total range of 0-27. Scores of 0-4 indicate minimal depression, 5-9 mild, 10-14 moderate, 15-19 moderately severe, and 20-27 severe depression. The final question about functional difficulty helps gauge how much symptoms are impacting daily life.