This free depression test uses the PHQ-9, a 9-question screening scale that clinicians use to measure depression severity. It takes about a minute, your answers stay on your device, and it is completely private. Answer honestly based on the last two weeks, then read what your score means below. A screening is a starting point, not a diagnosis.
Depression Self-Test
A 9-question screening based on the PHQ-9. Takes about a minute.
This is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. It can help you understand your symptoms, but only a clinician can diagnose depression. Your answers stay on your device — nothing is saved or sent.
Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by any of the following problems?
Instrument: PHQ-9 (Kroenke, Spitzer & Williams, 2001), a validated, public-domain screening scale. If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 anytime. Sacramento Mental Health treats adults 18 and older.
What This Depression Test Measures
The PHQ-9 asks about nine core symptoms of depression, including low mood, loss of interest, changes in sleep and appetite, low energy, trouble concentrating, and thoughts of self-harm. You rate how often each has bothered you over the past two weeks, and the answers add up to a score from 0 to 27. It is one of the most widely used and well-validated depression screening tools, used routinely in primary care and mental health settings.
How to Read Your Score
Your total falls into one of five ranges. These describe symptom severity; they do not, by themselves, confirm a diagnosis.
| PHQ-9 Score | What It Suggests |
|---|---|
| 0 – 4 | Minimal symptoms |
| 5 – 9 | Mild depression |
| 10 – 14 | Moderate depression |
| 15 – 19 | Moderately severe depression |
| 20 – 27 | Severe depression |
Is This Depression Test a Diagnosis?
No. A high score does not confirm depression, and a low score does not rule it out. Only a licensed clinician can diagnose depression, through a full evaluation. What this test can do is help you understand your symptoms and decide whether to reach out. The National Institute of Mental Health describes depression as a common but serious mood disorder that is highly treatable.
If You Are Thinking About Suicide
One of the PHQ-9 questions asks about thoughts of self-harm or being better off dead. If you answered anything other than “not at all,” or if you are having thoughts of suicide, please reach out now. You can call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline any time, day or night, or call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. These thoughts are a symptom of depression, they are treatable, and you deserve support right now.
In Crisis Right Now?
If you or someone you love is in immediate psychiatric crisis, call or text 988 — the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Available 24/7, confidential, free.
If life is in danger, call 911. Sacramento Mental Health is a residential treatment program — not an acute crisis or emergency service.
What to Do With Your Results
If your score is in the moderate range or higher, or if depression is interfering with your daily life at any score, it is worth talking with a professional. A good next step is a comprehensive assessment. To understand the bigger picture, including the types of depression and how it is treated, see our complete guide to depression treatment.
Depression Treatment at Sacramento Mental Health
When depression has taken over daily life, our residential program delivers gold-standard treatment with daily support.
Explore depression treatment →Frequently Asked Questions About the Depression Test
Is this depression test free and private?
Yes. The test is completely free, and it runs entirely on your device. Your answers are not saved, sent, or shared with anyone, including us. Nothing about your responses leaves your browser.
How accurate is the PHQ-9?
The PHQ-9 is one of the most validated depression screening tools available and is widely used by clinicians. It is accurate as a screening measure, reliably flagging when symptoms warrant a closer look, but it is a screen, not a diagnostic test.
What does my depression test score mean?
Scores range from 0 to 27: 0 to 4 is minimal, 5 to 9 is mild, 10 to 14 is moderate, 15 to 19 is moderately severe, and 20 to 27 is severe. Higher scores suggest more significant symptoms and a stronger reason to seek a professional assessment.
What should I do if I am having thoughts of suicide?
Treat it as urgent. Call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline any time, or call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Thoughts of suicide are a symptom of depression, they are treatable, and reaching out is a sign of strength.