Depression Screening (PHQ-9)
The PHQ-9 is a widely recognised mood questionnaire. Answer the nine items below as honestly as you can -- there are no right or wrong responses.
Question 1 of 9
Over the past two weeks, how often have you had little interest or pleasure in doing things?
Over the past two weeks, how often have you felt down, depressed or hopeless?
Over the past two weeks, how often have you had trouble falling or staying asleep, or sleeping too much?
Over the past two weeks, how often have you felt tired or had little energy?
Over the past two weeks, how often have you had poor appetite or been overeating?
Over the past two weeks, how often have you felt bad about yourself, or that you are a failure or have let yourself or your family down?
Over the past two weeks, how often have you had trouble concentrating on things?
Over the past two weeks, how often have you been moving or speaking so slowly that other people could have noticed, or been so fidgety or restless that you moved around more than usual?
Over the past two weeks, how often have you had thoughts that you would be better off dead, or of hurting yourself in some way?
Your Result
This test is for self-assessment purposes only and does not replace a professional diagnosis. If you have concerns, please reach out to a qualified professional.
Understanding the PHQ-9
The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 is one of the most widely adopted screening instruments for depression worldwide. Developed by Drs Kroenke, Spitzer and Williams, it maps directly onto the nine symptom criteria that define a major depressive episode. Clinicians, researchers and counsellors rely on it because it is brief, evidence-based and easy to interpret.
Depression: More Than a Low Mood
Everyone experiences sadness from time to time, but clinical depression is qualitatively different. It can drain your motivation, disrupt sleep and appetite, cloud your concentration, and leave you feeling disconnected from the things that once mattered. The encouraging truth is that depression responds well to professional support, and reaching out is the most important first step.
Signs That It May Be Time to Talk to Someone
- A low or flat mood that lingers for two weeks or longer
- Withdrawing from friends, family or activities you used to enjoy
- Persistent feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Any thoughts of self-harm or suicide -- please seek help right away
Crisis Support
If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, please reach out now:
- International Association for Suicide Prevention: Find a crisis centre
- USA: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 988 (call or text, 24/7)
- UK: Samaritans 116 123 (24/7, free)
- Germany: Telefonseelsorge 0800-1110111 (24/7, free)
- Emergency services: 112 (EU) / 911 (USA)
You Do Not Have to Navigate This Alone
I provide compassionate, professional psychological counselling to help you move through depression at your own pace.
Arrange a Counselling SessionStill weighing it up? That is perfectly okay. A free, no-obligation introductory call gives you the chance to share what is on your mind and see how I work -- no pressure, complete confidentiality.
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