Depression Screening — PHQ-9 (9 items)
PHQ-9 is the most widely used depression screening tool. It measures the severity of depressive symptoms over the past 2 weeks. Developed by Kroenke, Spitzer & Williams (2001), based on DSM-IV criteria. This is a screening tool — not a clinical diagnosis.
Important notice
Test results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute a clinical diagnosis. If in doubt, consult a specialist. Learn more →
Before you start
No account, no personal details — you see your result right away and your answers stay private.
What does this test measure?
Dimensions measured in this test
Depression Severity
Severity of depressive symptoms over the past 2 weeks (PHQ-9 scale). A screening tool — not a clinical diagnosis.
How does the test work?
The test consists of 9 multiple-choice questions. For each question, select the best answer from the given options. Results will be calculated automatically after completing the test.
Completing the test takes approximately 3 minutes. You can take it on a computer or phone — your answers are saved automatically.
How to interpret results?
After completing the test, you will receive detailed results for each dimension along with interpretation. Your scores are compared against population norms, so you can see how you compare to others.
Scientific basis
This test is based on established scientific literature and is used in psychological research worldwide. Questions come from public, validated psychometric instruments.
Score interpretation — screening cutoffs
The total score ranges from 0 to 27 points. The published interpretation thresholds for this instrument:
| Score | Interpretation |
| 0–4 | Minimal or no depression |
| 5–9 | Mild depression |
| 10–14 | Moderate depression |
| 15–19 | Moderately severe depression |
| 20–27 | Severe depression |
The thresholds come from the instrument’s original scientific publication and are for educational purposes only. A screening result is not a clinical diagnosis.
Sources
- 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. doi.org/10.1046/j.1525-1497.2001.016009606.x
Content last updated: July 10, 2026
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Frequently asked questions
Is this test free?▼
Yes, the test is fully free — every question, the scoring and the result with a dimension-by-dimension interpretation. You see your result immediately after the last answer, with no registration, e-mail or card required. An extended PDF report is available as an optional purchase, but you do not need it to see and understand your score.
How long does it take to complete?▼
It takes about 3 minutes — the test has 9 questions, each answered with a single click on a scale. There is no time limit, you can go at your own pace, and a progress bar shows how much is left. You get the most accurate results by answering spontaneously rather than deliberating over single items.
Are the results accurate?▼
The test is based on a published, validated psychometric instrument — the source and authors are listed in the scientific-basis section on this page, and clinical tests additionally cite their validation studies. Scores are computed with the published scoring keys. Bear in mind that a self-report questionnaire captures a snapshot in time and is educational — it does not replace a clinical diagnosis by a professional.
Can I save my results?▼
Yes. Right after the test you can save the result to a free account in one click — just an e-mail; sign-in uses a magic link, no password. Saved results build your psychological profile, where you can compare dimensions across different tests on one chart and revisit results any time. Without an account you still see your result — it just is not kept for later.