What is the PHQ-9?
The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) is one of the most widely used screening tools for depression in the world. It was developed by Drs Spitzer, Williams and Kroenke and is used by GPs, psychologists and psychiatrists to check for depression and to track how symptoms change over time. Each of its nine questions matches one of the core symptoms of depression, such as low mood, loss of interest, sleep problems, tiredness and difficulty concentrating.
Your answers give a total score from 0 to 27. Higher scores mean more frequent and more troublesome symptoms. The score helps you see how heavy things have been recently, but it is a starting point for a conversation, not a diagnosis.
Who should take it?
The PHQ-9 is designed for adults. It can be useful if you have been feeling low, flat, tired or unmotivated for a while and want to understand whether it might be depression, or if you are already in therapy and want to follow your progress.
How to take it
Think about the last two weeks only. For each statement, choose how often it has bothered you: not at all, several days, more than half the days, or nearly every day. Go with your first honest answer — there are no right or wrong responses. The test takes about two minutes, and your result appears straight away.
Frequently asked questions
Does this test diagnose depression?
No. The PHQ-9 is a screening tool. Only a qualified professional can make a diagnosis after a full assessment that considers your history and circumstances.
What if I answered anything other than “Not at all” to question 9?
Thoughts of death or self-harm deserve attention whatever your total score. Please talk to someone you trust, contact your local emergency services if you feel unsafe, or speak with one of our therapists.
How often can I retake it?
Because it asks about the last two weeks, retaking it every two to four weeks is a good way to see whether things are improving.
What does your result mean?
- 0 – 4No or minimal symptomsLittle sign of depression
- 5 – 9Mild depressionKeep an eye on how you feel
- 10 – 14Moderate depressionWorth talking to a specialist
- 15 – 19Moderately severe depressionReach out to a specialist
- 20 – 27Severe depressionSeek support soon
Your result is not a diagnosis, it is an indicator. A therapist reads it together with your whole story.
Medical review and sources
Rights: PHQ-9 © Pfizer Inc. Developed by Drs Robert L. Spitzer, Janet B.W. Williams, Kurt Kroenke and colleagues, with an educational grant from Pfizer Inc. Used with permission.