PHQ-9 Depression Test (Score & Severity)
Screen for depression and gauge its severity with the PHQ-9, a nine-item questionnaire based on the diagnostic criteria for depression. For each item, choose how often it has bothered you over the last two weeks; each answer scores 0 to 3 for a total of 0 to 27. This is a self-assessment screening aid, not a diagnosis.
Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by any of the following?
About the PHQ-9
The PHQ-9 is a validated self-report screen for depression that maps to the nine diagnostic symptom criteria and is widely used to gauge severity and monitor treatment. Source: Kroenke K, Spitzer RL, Williams JBW, “The PHQ-9: validity of a brief depression severity measure,” Journal of General Internal Medicine 2001;16(9):606–613.
How this is calculated
| Response | Points |
|---|---|
| Not at all | 0 |
| Several days | 1 |
| More than half the days | 2 |
| Nearly every day | 3 |
| Maximum (9 items) | 27 |
Add the nine responses. Severity: 0–4 minimal, 5–9 mild, 10–14 moderate, 15–19 moderately severe, 20–27 severe; a score ≥ 10 suggests possible major depression (≈ 88% sensitivity and specificity). Source: Kroenke K et al., J Gen Intern Med 2001;16(9):606–613.
Frequently asked questions
How is the PHQ-9 scored?
Each of the nine items is rated 0 (not at all), 1 (several days), 2 (more than half the days) or 3 (nearly every day), and the answers are added for a total of 0 to 27. No items are reverse-scored. The severity bands are 0–4 minimal, 5–9 mild, 10–14 moderate, 15–19 moderately severe and 20–27 severe.
What does a PHQ-9 score of 10 or more mean?
A score of 10 or above is the usual threshold for possible major depression, with about 88% sensitivity and 88% specificity in the validation study. It does not confirm a diagnosis — it flags that a fuller assessment by a clinician is worthwhile. Scores are also used to track whether depression is improving with treatment over time.
What about the last question on self-harm?
The ninth item asks about thoughts of being better off dead or of hurting yourself. Any answer above “not at all” should be taken seriously regardless of the total score. If you are having these thoughts, please reach out for help now — in the US you can call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), and elsewhere contact your local crisis line or emergency services.
Is the PHQ-9 a diagnosis of depression?
No — the PHQ-9 is a validated screening and severity tool, not a diagnostic test. A diagnosis of depression requires a clinical assessment that considers your history, how long symptoms have lasted, their effect on your life, and other possible causes. Use the score as a starting point for a conversation with a health professional.
How often should it be used?
The PHQ-9 asks about the past two weeks and can be repeated — for example every few weeks — to monitor change. Because it relies on honest self-report and how you feel can vary, a single score is only a snapshot. This is an educational reference, not medical advice.
This is a reference tool, not a diagnosis or medical advice. Results depend on the laboratory, assay and clinical context, and reference intervals vary between labs and by age and sex — always read your result against the range printed on your own report and discuss it with a qualified healthcare professional.
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