PHQ-9 Depression Test
Standard 9-Question Depression Assessment
Free PHQ-9 depression test. This validated 9-question assessment takes 3-5 minutes and measures depression severity. Get instant, confidential results.
Test Information
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Important Notice
This screening tool is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or diagnosis. Only a qualified healthcare provider can diagnose depression. If you scored anything other than 'Not at all' on question 9, seek immediate help: call 988, text HOME to 741741, or go to your nearest emergency room. Consult a healthcare professional if you're concerned about your mental health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the PHQ-9?
The PHQ-9 has 88% sensitivity and 88% specificity for major depression. It's a screening tool, not a diagnostic test. Only a healthcare provider can diagnose depression, but the PHQ-9 helps identify who needs further evaluation.
What do the severity levels mean?
Scores are divided into five levels: Minimal (0-4), Mild (5-9), Moderate (10-14), Moderately Severe (15-19), and Severe (20-27). Scores of 10+ typically warrant professional evaluation. Scores of 15+ usually require both therapy and medication.
Should I take medication for depression?
Discuss this with your healthcare provider. For mild depression (5-9), lifestyle changes and therapy are often tried first. For moderate depression (10-14), therapy is recommended; medication may be added if needed. For scores of 15+, research shows medication plus therapy is most effective. Antidepressants typically take 4-6 weeks to work fully.
How often should I retake this?
If you're in treatment, your provider may ask you to complete it every 1-2 weeks. If you scored in the mild range, retake it in 2-4 weeks to see if symptoms persist. For general monitoring, every few months is reasonable.
What if I scored high on question 9?
Any score other than 0 on question 9 requires immediate attention. Call 988 (National Suicide Prevention Lifeline), text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line), or go to your nearest emergency room. These thoughts need professional evaluation regardless of your total score.
Can I have depression with a low score?
Yes. The PHQ-9 measures symptoms over the past two weeks, but depression varies. Some people have atypical depression (oversleeping, overeating) or dysthymia (chronic mild symptoms). If you're concerned despite a low score, talk to a healthcare provider.
How long does treatment take?
Most people feel better within 6-8 weeks of starting treatment. Therapy typically lasts 12-20 sessions for acute depression. If medication is prescribed, doctors usually recommend continuing it for 6-12 months after symptoms improve to prevent relapse.
Is my information private?
Yes. This screening runs in your browser. Your answers aren't sent to any server or stored anywhere. Everything stays on your device. We encourage you to share your results with your healthcare provider.
Related Resources
Quick 2-question screening for initial depression detection
Specialized assessment for teens ages 13-17
Immediate resources if you're experiencing a mental health crisis