How are you really feeling?
Mood and energy check (PHQ-9)
A quick and caring way to find out whether your tiredness or low mood might be something more, and to get first steps toward support.
About the test
The PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) is a short, effective tool developed by Drs. R. Spitzer, J. Williams and K. Kroenke (1999). It helps assess nine key symptoms of depression over the past 2 weeks.
Answer 9 questions by saying how often you have been bothered by each problem over the last two weeks. Choose the answer that best matches how you feel.
3 groups of symptoms the PHQ-9 measures
Low mood, hopelessness, loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities (anhedonia).
Chronic fatigue, sleep problems (insomnia or sleepiness), appetite changes and psychomotor slowing.
Difficulty concentrating, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, trouble making decisions.
❓ Frequently asked questions about the PHQ-9 depression test (FAQ)
🔬 Scientific profile of the method, comparison with the Beck test (BDI) and cut-off scores
Online depression test: the scientific basis of the PHQ-9 and how it compares with the Beck test
The PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) is a standardized clinical depression screening tool developed by the American researchers Robert L. Spitzer, Janet B.W. Williams and Kurt Kroenke (1999). It is based directly on the 9 diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder in the DSM-IV and DSM-5.
In clinical practice the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), created by Aaron Beck, is also widely used alongside the PHQ-9. The BDI focuses on deeper cognitive patterns and negative beliefs through 21 detailed questions, whereas the PHQ-9 is optimized for quick, accurate screening (sensitivity 88% and specificity 88% at a cut-off of ≥ 10 points; Cronbach's α > 0.86).
Diagnostic cut-offs and interpretation of results:
• 0–4 points: Minimal symptoms / normal emotional state.
• 5–9 points: Mild depression (monitor your state; keep up sleep routines and self-help practices).
• 10–14 points: Moderate depression (clinically significant; a consultation with a psychologist or psychotherapist is recommended).
• 15–19 points: Moderately severe depression (needs professional psychotherapeutic help, e.g. CBT).
• 20–27 points: Severe depression (needs prompt, comprehensive care from a psychiatrist and a psychotherapist).
9 questions • ~2–3 minutes • Confidential
Additional information about the depression test (PHQ-9)
Robert L. Spitzer, Janet B.W. Williams, Kurt Kroenke (1999)
The PHQ-9 is the depression module of the Patient Health Questionnaire and is widely used to detect depression. With sensitivity and specificity of 88% at the standard cut-off (≥ 10), it is a brief alternative to longer instruments such as the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), and it maps directly onto the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria.
This online depression test is intended for self-assessment and screening. A final clinical diagnosis can only be made by a mental health professional.