Analysing your IQ
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Complete the PHQ-9 questionnaire to screen for symptoms of depression. This validated 9-question tool is the most widely used depression screening instrument worldwide.
This is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. It does not replace professional evaluation. Your responses are not stored or transmitted — all processing happens locally in your browser.
The PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) is the gold standard screening tool for depression. Developed by Drs. Kroenke, Spitzer, and Williams, it is based on the nine diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder from the DSM.
You will be asked 9 questions about symptoms experienced over the past two weeks. For each, select how often you have been bothered by the symptom described. The screening takes approximately 3 minutes to complete.
Depression (major depressive disorder) is one of the most common mental health conditions, affecting over 280 million people worldwide. It is characterised by persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, and a range of physical and cognitive symptoms that significantly impair daily functioning.
Depression is highly treatable. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy have strong evidence bases. Antidepressant medications (SSRIs, SNRIs) are effective for moderate to severe depression. Lifestyle factors including regular exercise, social connection, adequate sleep, and nutrition play important supporting roles. Early identification through screening tools like the PHQ-9 enables timely intervention.
The PHQ-9 is a validated, self-administered screening tool for depression. Developed by Drs. Kroenke, Spitzer, and Williams, it consists of 9 questions based on DSM criteria for major depressive disorder. It is the most widely used depression screening instrument in the world.
The PHQ-9 has been extensively validated across diverse populations. At a cutoff score of 10, it has a sensitivity of 88% and specificity of 88% for detecting major depression. It is reliable for monitoring symptom severity over time and measuring treatment response. However, it is a screening tool and should not be used alone for diagnosis.
If you score 10 or above on the PHQ-9, professional evaluation is recommended. Contact your primary care provider, a mental health professional, or a counselling service. Effective treatments for depression include cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, medication (SSRIs, SNRIs), and lifestyle changes. If you have thoughts of self-harm, please contact a crisis helpline immediately.
