PHQ-9 Depression Assessment
What Is the PHQ-9 Depression Test?
The PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) is one of the most widely used screening tools for depression. It consists of nine questions that reflect the core symptoms of depressive disorders described in clinical diagnostic criteria.
Each item is scored from 0 to 3 based on symptom frequency during the past two weeks. The total score helps estimate the severity of depressive symptoms.
Higher scores may indicate a greater likelihood of clinically significant depression and the need for professional evaluation.
This screening tool is used globally in primary care, psychiatric practice, and research settings.
Understand more about Depression here.
Reviewed by Dr. Mahendra Singh Uikey, Consultant Psychiatrist
This screening tool is provided for educational purposes and reflects current clinical guidelines used in psychiatric practice. It does not replace in-person medical consultation.
Clinical Reference:
Kroenke K, Spitzer RL, Williams JB. The PHQ-9: Validity of a brief depression severity measure. Journal of General Internal Medicine, 2001.
What Does This Mean?
This score reflects the severity of symptoms based on your responses.
Early professional assessment can help clarify diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment options.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the PHQ-9 test?
The PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) is a clinically validated screening tool used worldwide to assess the severity of depressive symptoms over the past two weeks. It is based on diagnostic criteria used in psychiatric practice.
Is the PHQ-9 a diagnostic test?
No. The PHQ-9 is a screening tool and does not provide a formal medical diagnosis. A qualified psychiatrist must conduct a comprehensive clinical evaluation to diagnose depression.
When should I consult a psychiatrist after taking the test?
If your score is 10 or above, or if you experience thoughts of self-harm, it is strongly recommended to seek professional psychiatric consultation for proper assessment and support.
Is this depression test available in Hindi?
Yes. This tool is available in both English and Hindi to improve accessibility and understanding for a wider population.
Is my information stored or shared?
No personal data is collected or stored through this screening tool. It is designed for private self-assessment only.