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Depression Score (PHQ 9) Calculator

Work out depression score (phq 9) instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.

About Depression Score (PHQ 9) Calculator

Adds the nine PHQ-9 items, each scored 0 to 3 for the past two weeks, and applies the published severity bands.

Formula

PHQ-9 bands

0-4 minimal, 5-9 mild, 10-14 moderate, 15-19 moderately severe, 20-27 severe

Worked example

With the default values below, Depression Score (PHQ 9) Calculator returns PHQ-9 total of 12. Change any input above and every figure here is recalculated in your browser.

Inputs used

Sum of items 1-5accepts 0–15
7
Sum of items 6-9accepts 0–12
5

Results

PHQ-9 total
12
Severity band
Moderate range
Suggested approach
Treatment plan based on duration and functional impact
Maximum possible score
27

Step by step

  1. 1Values used
  2. 2PHQ-9 bands
  3. 3PHQ-9 total= 12
  4. 4Severity band= Moderate range
  5. 5Suggested approach= Treatment plan based on duration and functional impact
  6. 6Maximum possible score= 27

Assumptions and limits

  • The result is derived only from the 2 inputs listed above. Anything not among them is not part of the calculation.
  • In particular, this calculator does not take inflation, tax, fees or charges or compounding frequency into account.
  • Figures are rounded for display to whole numbers, so totals built from several rounded parts can differ slightly from the unrounded arithmetic.
  • Educational estimate only. Not a substitute for professional clinical judgement, and must not be used to make treatment or dosing decisions.
  • This is an estimate for general information and not professional medical advice. See the full disclaimer for the limits that apply to this kind of calculator.

How these calculators are built and tested is described on the Methodology page. If a figure looks wrong, please report it.

Educational estimate only. Not a substitute for professional clinical judgement, and must not be used to make treatment or dosing decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What score suggests major depression?

10 or more has a sensitivity and specificity of about 88% for major depressive disorder.

Does item 9 need special attention?

Yes. Any positive response to the self-harm item requires immediate risk assessment regardless of total score.

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Depression Score (PHQ 9) Calculator | Calcrivo