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PHQ-9 Calculator
Objectifies degree of depression severity. Used as a screening tool to assist in diagnosis, quantify symptoms, and monitor severity over time.
Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by any of the following problems?
CRITICAL ACTION: Positive response to Item 9 recorded. Perform a suicide risk assessment immediately.
0
Points
Calculating…
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| Score | Depression Severity | Management Comments |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – 4 | Minimal or none | Monitor; may not require treatment |
| 5 – 9 | Mild | Use clinical judgment (duration, impairment) |
| 10 – 14 | Moderate | Use clinical judgment to determine necessity of treatment |
| 15 – 19 | Moderately severe | Warrants active treatment with psychotherapy, meds, or both |
| 20 – 27 | Severe | Warrants active treatment with psychotherapy, meds, or both |
1
Final Diagnosis: A positive screen does not equate to a final diagnosis. Final diagnosis should be made with a clinical interview and mental status examination, including assessment of functional impairment.
2
Rule Outs: Ensure you rule out bipolar disorder, normal bereavement, and underlying medical disorders causing depression before finalizing a Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) diagnosis.
3
Primary Care Caveat: Evidence shows that when used in a primary care setting, only approximately 50% of patients screening positive on the PHQ-9 in fact have major depression (Levis 2019).
