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PHQ-9 Depression Score Calculator

Calculate a PHQ-9 depression screening score from nine symptom questions. Use the result as a screen, not a diagnosis.

PHQ-9 Depression Score

Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by any of the following problems?

PHQ-9 questionnaire items

Total PHQ-9 score

0/ 27

None to minimal depression severity

No treatment is usually indicated. Rescreen if symptoms develop or persist.

Clinical cut point (10+)

Not met

A score of 10 or more flags probable major depression.

Provisional diagnosis (algorithm)

Criteria not met

0 of 9 symptoms at the counting threshold.

Severity bands

  • 0 to 4: none to minimal
  • 5 to 9: mild
  • 10 to 14: moderate
  • 15 to 19: moderately severe
  • 20 to 27: severe

Medical disclaimer

This tool is for educational use only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The PHQ-9 is a screening questionnaire, not a diagnosis. The provisional diagnosis label follows the published scoring algorithm and still requires clinical confirmation. Always discuss your results with a qualified health professional. If you have thoughts of self-harm, seek help immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions about the PHQ-9 Depression Score Calculator

What is the PHQ-9 and how is it scored?
The PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire) is a nine-item depression screening tool from Kroenke, Spitzer, and Williams (2001), based on the nine DSM symptoms of major depression. You answer how often each problem has bothered you over the last 2 weeks: not at all (0), several days (1), more than half the days (2), or nearly every day (3). The total score is the simple sum of the nine items, ranging from 0 to 27.
What do the PHQ-9 severity bands mean?
The standard cut points are: 0 to 4 none to minimal, 5 to 9 mild, 10 to 14 moderate, 15 to 19 moderately severe, and 20 to 27 severe. A total of 10 or more is the most commonly cited threshold for probable major depression, with sensitivity and specificity both around 88 percent. Higher bands generally call for more active treatment and follow-up.
How does the provisional diagnosis work?
The PHQ-9 diagnostic algorithm counts symptom items scored 2 or 3 (item 9, suicidal thoughts, counts at any non-zero level). A provisional major depressive syndrome needs at least 5 counted symptoms with at least one being item 1 (loss of interest) or item 2 (depressed mood). With 2 to 4 counted symptoms plus a core item, it flags other depressive syndrome. This is a screening label, not a confirmed diagnosis.
Why does item 9 get a separate flag?
Item 9 asks about thoughts of being better off dead or of self-harm. Any non-zero answer triggers a flag because it calls for a direct safety assessment by a clinician, no matter how low the total score is. If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact local emergency services or a suicide prevention line right away. In the US, you can call or text 988.
Can the PHQ-9 diagnose depression by itself?
No. The PHQ-9 is a screening and severity measure, not a diagnosis. A high score signals that a fuller clinical evaluation is warranted, but a clinician still has to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes. Use the score as a starting point for a conversation, not a conclusion.
Is this calculator a substitute for medical advice?
No. This tool is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Results should be discussed with a qualified health professional who can review your full situation. If you have thoughts of self-harm, seek help immediately.

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