Depression
PHQ-8 Depression Scale
An 8-item depression measure without the self-harm item.
About this test
The PHQ-8 is the PHQ-9 without the ninth item about self-harm. It is often used in surveys and settings where the self-harm item cannot be followed up. A total of 10 or more suggests likely major depression.
What your score means
| Score | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 0–4 | Minimal depression |
| 5–9 | Mild depression |
| 10–14 | Moderate depression |
| 15–19 | Moderately severe depression |
| 20–24 | Severe depression |
Frequently asked questions
How is the PHQ-8 different from the PHQ-9?
It drops the ninth item about thoughts of self-harm, so it is used where that item cannot be followed up. The other eight items are identical.
What score is a concern?
A total of 10 or more suggests likely major depression and a reason for a fuller assessment.
Related screenings
CES-DCES-D Depression ScaleEPDSEdinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)GDS-15Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15)
Source: Kroenke et al. (2009). Public domain (Pfizer).