What is the PHQ-9 Depression Self-Test?

The PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) is a widely-used, validated, nine-question self-report tool used by healthcare professionals for two main purposes:

1. Screening: To check for the presence of depressive symptoms.
2. Severity Assessment: To measure the severity of depression and monitor a patient’s response to treatment over time.

It is based on the diagnostic criteria for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) from the DSM-IV/DSM-5.

What do the questions on the PHQ-9 ask about?

The nine questions on the PHQ-9 ask about how often you have been bothered by certain problems over the last two weeks. These questions cover the core symptoms of depression, including:

• Little interest or pleasure in doing things (anhedonia).
• Feeling down, depressed, or hopeless (depressed mood).
• Sleep trouble (insomnia or hypersomnia).
• Feeling tired or having little energy (fatigue).
• Appetite or weight changes.
• Feeling bad about yourself (guilt/worthlessness).
• Trouble concentrating.
• Moving or speaking slowly, or being restless.
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

How are the PHQ-9 scores calculated and interpreted?

Each of the nine questions is scored from 0 to 3 based on the frequency of the symptom over the last two weeks:

• 0 = Not at all
• 1 = Several days
• 2 = More than half the days
• 3 = Nearly every day

The total score ranges from 0 to 27. This score is then used to determine the severity level of depressive symptoms:

PHQ-9 Total Score	Depression Severity
0 – 4	None to Minimal Depression
5 – 9	Mild Depression
10 – 14	Moderate Depression
15 – 19	Moderately Severe Depression
20 – 27	Severe Depression

Does a high score on the self-test mean I have depression?

No. While a high score on the PHQ-9 suggests a higher likelihood and severity of depressive symptoms, this self-test is a screening tool, not a formal diagnosis.

Only a qualified healthcare professional (such as a doctor, psychiatrist, or licensed therapist) can provide an accurate diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder or other mental health conditions. Your test result should be used as a conversation starter with a professional.

What should I do if my PHQ-9 score is moderate (10 or higher)?

If your score is 10 or higher, it indicates moderate to severe symptoms, and it is strongly recommended that you seek professional help. You should:

1. Contact a Doctor: Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or a mental health specialist.
2. Share Your Results: Bring your PHQ-9 score with you to the appointment to help the professional quickly understand your current symptoms.
3. Explore Treatment: A professional can discuss evidence-based treatments, such as psychotherapy (counseling/talk therapy) and/or medication.
4. Try Meditation for Depression

What if I have thoughts of self-harm or suicide (Question 9)?

If you indicate any frequency of thoughts about being better off dead or hurting yourself, this is a serious and immediate concern, regardless of your total score.

If you are in crisis or thinking about suicide, please stop the self-test immediately and seek emergency help:

• Call your local emergency number (e.g., 911).
• Go to the nearest emergency room.
• Contact a suicide prevention helpline (e.g., the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline).

How often should I take the PHQ-9?

The PHQ-9 is a useful tool for tracking symptoms over time. If you have been diagnosed with depression or are undergoing treatment, your clinician may recommend taking the test regularly (e.g., every few weeks or months) to monitor progress and see how effective your current treatment plan is.