Depression Severity Calculator
Screen for depression symptoms using PHQ-9 criteria by rating five core symptoms. Use this when you want a quick, evidence-based indicator of depression severity to discuss with a healthcare provider.
About this calculator
This calculator uses a subset of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), a clinically validated screening tool for depression. Each of the five symptoms — mood, sleep, energy, appetite, and concentration — is rated on a 0–3 scale: 0 (not at all), 1 (several days), 2 (more than half the days), 3 (nearly every day). The total score is computed as: Score = mood + sleep + energy + appetite + concentration. A score of 0–4 suggests minimal symptoms, 5–9 mild, 10–14 moderate, and 15+ moderately severe to severe depression. This tool is intended for informational screening only and does not replace a clinical diagnosis. Always consult a qualified mental health professional if you have concerns.
How to use
Suppose you rate your symptoms as follows: mood = 2, sleep = 3, energy = 2, appetite = 1, concentration = 2. The calculation is: Score = 2 + 3 + 2 + 1 + 2 = 10. A score of 10 falls in the moderate depression range (10–14). This result suggests it would be worthwhile to speak with a doctor or mental health professional for a full assessment. Ratings reflect how often you have experienced each symptom over the past two weeks.
Frequently asked questions
How is the PHQ-9 depression score interpreted and what do the ranges mean?
The PHQ-9 total score ranges from 0 to 27 (for the full 9-item version). Scores of 0–4 indicate minimal or no depression, 5–9 mild depression, 10–14 moderate depression, 15–19 moderately severe, and 20–27 severe depression. These thresholds help clinicians determine whether watchful waiting, counseling, medication, or urgent care is appropriate. This calculator uses five of the nine items, so scores should be interpreted as a rough indicator rather than a definitive diagnosis.
What is the difference between PHQ-9 and other depression screening tools?
The PHQ-9 is one of the most widely used and validated self-report depression screeners, derived directly from DSM diagnostic criteria. Other tools include the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D, clinician-administered), and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS, for new mothers). The PHQ-9 is favored in primary care for its brevity and strong sensitivity and specificity. Each tool has its own scoring system and intended population, so results are not directly interchangeable.
Can an online depression severity calculator replace a doctor's diagnosis?
No — an online screening tool cannot replace a professional clinical diagnosis. These calculators are designed to help you recognize potential symptoms and decide whether to seek professional help. Depression diagnosis requires a comprehensive evaluation that considers duration, functional impairment, medical history, and ruling out other conditions. If your score suggests moderate or severe symptoms, please contact a licensed mental health provider or your primary care physician promptly. In a crisis, contact a helpline such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.