PHQ-9 Patient Health Questionnaire
DepressionSelf-assessmentScreening
Questions
9 items
Duration
Usually 3-5 minutes
Introduction
The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) is a widely used screening and assessment tool for depression. The questionnaire consists of 9 items based on the depression symptom criteria in DSM-IV diagnostic standards. PHQ-9 can not only be used to screen for depression but also assess the severity of depressive symptoms and treatment effectiveness.
Test Instructions
Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by any of the following problems? Choose the option that best describes your situation. Each question has four choices: Not at all, Several days, More than half the days, Nearly every day.
Scoring Method
- 1Total Score: Sum of all 9 items, range 0-27 points
- 2Scoring: Not at all=0, Several days=1, More than half the days=2, Nearly every day=3
- 3Severity: 0-4 = minimal/none, 5-9 = mild, 10-14 = moderate, 15-19 = moderately severe, 20-27 = severe depression
Dimension Explanation
1
Loss of InterestLittle interest or pleasure in doing things
2
Depressed MoodFeeling down, depressed, or hopeless
3
Sleep ProblemsTrouble falling or staying asleep, or sleeping too much
4
FatigueFeeling tired or having little energy
5
Appetite ChangesPoor appetite or overeating
6
Self-WorthFeeling bad about yourself or that you are a failure
7
ConcentrationTrouble concentrating on things
8
PsychomotorMoving or speaking slowly, or being fidgety/restless
9
Self-Harm ThoughtsThoughts of being better off dead or hurting yourself
Notes
- 💡This scale is suitable for screening and assessing depressive symptoms in adults
- 💡If total score ≥10, professional evaluation is recommended
- 💡If item 9 (self-harm thoughts) scores ≥1, immediate professional help is needed
- 💡This scale is for screening purposes only and cannot replace professional diagnosis