PHQ-9: Patient Healthcare Questionnaire for Depression

The PHQ-9, a component of the Patient Health Questionnaire, consists of nine concise and direct questions designed to assist healthcare providers in recognizing indications or symptoms of depression. It can also be self-administered.

Applications of the PHQ-9:

• Routine depression screenings during primary care appointments or checkups.
• Element of a more comprehensive evaluation, such as the quarterly assessment required by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for nursing home residents.
• Part of a comprehensive psychiatric screening to examine mental health factors that may be affecting physical health concerns.
• It assesses anxiety, alcohol consumption, and eating habits in addition to depression.

Components of the PHQ-9 Questionnaire:

The PHQ-9 evaluates elements associated with diagnostic criteria for depression, including:

• Frequency of specific feelings or situations in the past two weeks: not at all, several days, more than half the days, or nearly every day.
• The influence of depression on daily activities: not at all, somewhat difficult, very difficult, or extremely difficult.

PHQ-9 Scoring:

• Each question/statement is given a score from zero to three points:

  • Not at all: 0 points
  • Several days: 1 point
  • More than half of the days: 2 points
  • Almost all of the days: 3 points

• Total scores can range from zero to 27.

Interpreting Scores:

• 20 or higher: Severe major depression is likely present, suggesting a combination of antidepressant medication and psychotherapy.
• 15 to 19: Possibly moderately severe major depression, warranting antidepressants or psychotherapy.
• 10 to 14: Moderate severity depression, typically leading to recommendations for medication or psychotherapy.
• 5 to 9: Mild symptoms of depression, warranting close monitoring and re-evaluation.

Accuracy of the PHQ-9:

• Numerous studies have demonstrated the PHQ-9's reliability, consistency, validity, and precision in assessing depression.
• It is more sensitive in detecting major depression than a diagnostic interview.
• It maintains accuracy even when the test-taker has other health conditions.
• It can be effectively administered over the phone.

Importance of Evaluating Depression:

• Depression can manifest through various physical symptoms, prompting individuals to seek medical attention.
• Accurately identifying the underlying cause of these symptoms, whether medical or mental health-related, leads to more effective treatment.
• Depression is treatable with psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both.
• Treating depression improves quality of life and may conserve financial resources that would otherwise be misdirected towards treating physical ailments.

Conclusion:

• The PHQ-9 is a self-administered test that does not necessitate extensive training, making it straightforward and effective for depression assessment.
• It is concise and can be completed promptly.
• The PHQ-9 has proven effective in various settings and circumstances.
• Recognizing depression is crucial for effective patient care, and the PHQ-9 is a reliable tool for this purpose.