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PHQ-9

Depression Test

A clinically validated screening tool for depression. Answer based on how often you have been bothered by each problem over the last 2 weeks.

Start privately 9 questions 3 min

About the PHQ-9

What it checks

The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)is a widely used, validated self-report tool for screening depressive symptoms and estimating symptom severity over the last 2 weeks.

MentalCraft uses the nine scored items from the official PHQ Screeners form. The result is a screening signal, not a diagnosis, and does not include the clinical context or functional review needed for diagnosis or treatment decisions.

Scoring

0–4 Minimal
5–9 Mild
10–14 Moderate
15–19 Moderately Severe
20–27 Severe

Source

Kroenke K, Spitzer RL, Williams JB. The PHQ-9: validity of a brief depression severity measure. J Gen Intern Med. 2001;16(9):606-613.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the PHQ-9?

The PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) is a clinically validated 9-item self-report tool used worldwide to screen for depression and measure its severity.

Is the PHQ-9 depression test accurate?

The PHQ-9 is well validated as a screener, but accuracy varies by population and setting. A score cannot confirm or rule out depression without professional evaluation and context.

How long does the PHQ-9 take?

The PHQ-9 takes 2–3 minutes to complete. It consists of 9 questions about how you have felt over the past 2 weeks.

Can this test diagnose depression?

No. The PHQ-9 is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. Only a qualified healthcare provider can diagnose depression. A high score suggests you should seek professional evaluation.

Do I need an account to take the test?

No. You can answer in the browser without creating an account.

Will outside resources receive my result?

No. Resource, partner, and checkout links do not receive your answers, score, or severity label.

Is this a diagnosis?

No. MentalCraft self-checks are educational screening tools and cannot replace a qualified professional evaluation.

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