Take our clinically validated PHQ-9 depression screening to understand your emotional well-being.
Get instant, confidential results with personalized recommendations — completely free.
Our free depression test uses the PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), a gold-standard
screening tool developed by Drs. Robert L. Spitzer, Janet B.W. Williams, and Kurt Kroenke. It's used by
physicians, therapists, and mental health clinics worldwide.
You'll answer 9 questions about how you've been feeling over the past two weeks.
Each question asks about specific symptoms of depression, from low mood to sleep changes to concentration difficulties.
Ready to check in with yourself? The assessment takes about 2 minutes. Answer honestly for the most accurate results. PHQ-9 Assessment
Answer 9 questions about how you've been feeling over the past 2 weeks.
Your responses are private and never stored.
This is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. Consult a professional for clinical evaluation.
Question 1 of 9 Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by: Question 2 of 9 Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by: Question 3 of 9 Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by: Question 4 of 9 Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by: Question 5 of 9 Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by: Question 6 of 9 Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by: Question 7 of 9 Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by: Question 8 of 9 Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by: Question 9 of 9 Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by: Analyzing your responses... Your Results
Your result description will appear here.
Personalized advice will appear here. PHQ-9 Score Guide
Experiencing anxiety too? Depression and anxiety often occur together.
Take our free anxiety test (GAD-7) →
The PHQ-9 scores range from 0-27. Here's what each level means and recommended next steps:
Little to no depressive symptoms. Continue healthy habits and self-care practices.
Suggested: Explore wellness tips
Some symptoms present. Monitor your mood and consider lifestyle adjustments.
Suggested: Try grounding exercise
Symptoms affecting daily life. Professional support recommended.
Suggested: Book consultation
Significant symptoms requiring attention. Please seek professional help promptly.
Suggested: Get support today
The PHQ-9 is one of the most widely validated depression screening tools in clinical practice.
Developed in 1999 and extensively researched since, it has become the standard for depression screening in
primary care settings worldwide.
Research published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine and other peer-reviewed publications
has demonstrated that the PHQ-9 has:
While the PHQ-9 is highly accurate as a screening tool, it's designed to identify potential depression, not
provide a formal diagnosis. A clinical diagnosis of major depressive disorder requires a comprehensive evaluation
by a qualified mental health professional who can consider your full medical history and circumstances.
If your score suggests moderate to severe depression, we strongly encourage you to
schedule a consultation with one of our licensed therapists.
Many people also experience anxiety alongside depression — consider
taking both assessments for a complete picture.
Depression manifests differently for everyone. Our therapists are experienced in treating various forms:
Persistent low mood, loss of interest, and other symptoms lasting at least two weeks. The most common form of clinical depression. Also called dysthymia — a chronic form of depression lasting two years or more with less severe but ongoing symptoms. Depression that follows a seasonal pattern, typically worsening in fall and winter when daylight hours decrease. Depression occurring after childbirth, affecting mood, energy, and the ability to care for oneself and baby. Depression triggered by specific life events like job loss, divorce, or grief. Often responds well to therapy. Characterized by mood reactivity (feeling better temporarily), increased appetite, excessive sleep, and sensitivity to rejection.
Book a free consultation to discuss which approach is right for you.
While professional support is important for ongoing depression, these free tools can help in difficult moments:
The PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) is a clinically validated screening tool used by healthcare providers worldwide to assess depression severity. It consists of 9 questions based on DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder. The PHQ-9 has excellent diagnostic accuracy with 88% sensitivity and 88% specificity for detecting major depression. However, it's a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. A formal diagnosis requires evaluation by a qualified mental health professional. Scores range from 0-27. Minimal (0-4) suggests no significant depression. Mild (5-9) indicates symptoms worth monitoring. Moderate (10-14) suggests professional support would help. Moderately severe (15-19) and severe (20-27) indicate treatment is strongly recommended. Yes, depression is highly treatable. Evidence-based approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, medication, or a combination. Many people experience significant improvement within 8-12 weeks of starting treatment. Sadness is a normal emotion that passes. Depression is persistent (lasting 2+ weeks), affects multiple life areas, and includes symptoms like sleep changes, energy loss, concentration problems, and feelings of worthlessness. Depression typically doesn't lift without intervention. Yes, anxiety and depression often occur together. Up to 60% of people with depression also experience anxiety symptoms. We recommend taking our free anxiety test (GAD-7) for a more complete picture of your mental health. Absolutely. Your responses are processed locally in your browser and are never stored on our servers. We don't collect any personal information or track your results. Your privacy is completely protected.
At Mental Wellness and Me, we provide compassionate, evidence-based
virtual therapy for depression throughout Ontario. Our registered therapists
specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy,
and other proven approaches.
Virtual therapy offers the same effectiveness as in-person sessions with added convenience — no commute,
flexible scheduling, and the comfort of your own space. Research consistently shows that online therapy
is just as effective as face-to-face treatment for depression.
Whether you're experiencing your first depressive episode or have lived with depression for years,
our team is here to help. We offer free 15-minute consultations to discuss your
needs and answer any questions.
Depression doesn't have to define your life. With the right support, most people experience
significant improvement. Take the first step today.
Prefer to explore first? Check out our mental health resources or
take our free anxiety test.
Free Depression Test Online
How Does This Depression Test Work?
Depression Self-Check
had little interest or pleasure in doing things?
been feeling down, depressed, or hopeless?
had trouble falling or staying asleep, or sleeping too much?
been feeling tired or having little energy?
had poor appetite or been overeating?
been feeling bad about yourself — or that you are a failure or have let yourself or your family down?
had trouble concentrating on things, such as reading or watching television?
been moving or speaking so slowly that other people could have noticed? Or the opposite — being so fidgety or restless?
had thoughts that you would be better off dead, or of hurting yourself in some way?
Understanding Your Depression Score
Is This Depression Test Accurate?
Clinical Validation
Important Considerations
Types of Depression We Support
Major Depressive Disorder
Persistent Depressive Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder
Postpartum Depression
Situational Depression
Atypical Depression
Feeling Low Right Now?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PHQ-9 depression test?
How accurate is this online depression test?
What do my depression test results mean?
Can depression be treated effectively?
What's the difference between sadness and depression?
Should I also take an anxiety test?
Is my depression test data confidential?
Online Depression Therapy Across Ontario
"I put off getting help for years because I was ashamed. My therapist at Mental Wellness and Me
helped me understand that depression isn't a weakness — it's a treatable condition. Six months later,
I feel like myself again."
— Sarah M., Toronto (via virtual therapy)
Ready to Feel Like Yourself Again?
PHQ-9 Clinical Standard
2 Minutes
100% Confidential
9 Questions
~2 min
Private
0
of 27
🌟
Minimal
💡 What This Means
0–4
Minimal
5–9
Mild
10–19
Moderate
20–27
Severe
0–4
Minimal Depression
5–9
Mild Depression
10–14
Moderate Depression
15–27
Severe Depression