Depression Quiz

The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) is a clinically validated screening tool used to assess symptoms of depression. This 9-question screener asks about the frequency of depression symptoms experienced over the past two weeks. The PHQ-9 is widely used by mental health professionals to help identify depression and monitor treatment response. This brief self-assessment cannot provide an official diagnosis, but your results can indicate whether you may be experiencing signs of depression and could benefit from a full evaluation by a qualified provider. If you are concerned about depression symptoms, this quiz is a helpful first step in assessing your mental health and determining recommended next steps.

Please note that this quiz is for exploration purposes and no clinical relationship is created between you and Relational Psych by continuing.

PHQ-9 scores range from 0 to 27, with higher scores indicating more frequent and severe depression symptoms. Here is how to interpret the results:

0-4: Scores in this range suggest minimal or no depression symptoms. Continued self-care and stress management techniques are encouraged.

5-9: Mild depression may be indicated. Consider reaching out to your support system, engaging in self-care, and monitoring symptoms. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult with a mental health professional.

10-14: A score in this range is suggestive of moderate depression. Speaking with a therapist or counselor for an evaluation is recommended. They can help determine if treatment would be beneficial.

15-19: Scores of 15-19 indicate moderately severe depression. A full assessment by a mental health professional is strongly advised to determine an appropriate treatment plan.

20-27: Severe depression may be present. Scores in this range warrant a prompt evaluation by a mental health provider or your primary care doctor. If you are having thoughts of death or suicide, call 9-8-8 or 9-1-1, or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.

Remember, online screening tools are not a substitute for an official diagnosis made by a qualified professional. However, your PHQ-9 results can provide helpful information about your current symptoms and guide you toward appropriate next steps.

If your PHQ-9 results suggest you may be experiencing depression, the following steps are recommended:

1. Reach out for support. Consider opening up to a trusted friend, family member, clergy, or other people in your support network about how you've been feeling. Social connection can provide validation and help alleviate depressive symptoms.
2. Engage in self-care. Prioritize activities that promote mental well-being, such as physical exercise, stress reduction techniques, spending time outdoors, and doing hobbies you enjoy. Self-care can improve resilience and lift your mood.
3. Consult a mental health professional. A therapist or counselor can provide a full evaluation, official diagnosis, and personalized treatment recommendations. They may suggest options like psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of approaches.
4. Contact your primary care provider. Your medical doctor can assess you and discuss treatment options. Sometimes depression symptoms are a sign of a medical concern instead of a mental health issue. Your PCP can also refer you to a mental health specialist and coordinate your care.
5. In a crisis, get immediate help. If you are in danger of harming yourself, call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number right away. You can also contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 for 24/7 support.

You don't have to face depression alone. Reaching out is a sign of strength, and effective treatments are available. Our mental health impacts all other aspects of our lives, so prioritizing your well-being is essential. If you have any concerns about depression or your mental health, we encourage you to take action and get the support you need.