Depression Quiz

Am I Depressed? Take the Free Depression Quiz (PHQ-9)

If you’ve been struggling with symptoms of depression and want more clarity, support, or treatment options, you’re not alone. The Am I Depressed Quiz uses the clinically recognized PHQ-9 depression questionnaire to help you better understand your symptoms and determine next steps.

This quiz is free, private, and evidence-based. While it does not provide a diagnosis, it can help you assess whether you may be experiencing depression and how severe your symptoms may be.

👉 Take the PHQ-9 Depression Quiz

What Is the PHQ-9 Depression Quiz?

The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) is a widely used self-assessment tool designed to screen for depression. It consists of nine questions that align with the diagnostic criteria for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in the DSM-5.

Each question measures how often a symptom has affected you over the past two weeks. Your responses help indicate:

• Whether depressive symptoms may be present

• The severity of those symptoms (mild, moderate, or severe)

Responses are scored on a scale from 0 to 3:

• 0 – Not at all

• 1 – Several days

• 2 – More than half the days

• 3 – Nearly every day

Answering “yes” to five or more symptoms may indicate the presence of depression and signal the need for further evaluation by a licensed professional.

PHQ-9: “Am I Depressed?” Questions

Over the last two weeks, how often have you been bothered by any of the following:

• Little interest or pleasure in doing things

• Feeling down, depressed, or hopeless

• Trouble falling or staying asleep, or sleeping too much

• Feeling tired or having little energy

• Poor appetite or overeating

• Feeling bad about yourself, or feeling like a failure

• Trouble concentrating on tasks like reading or watching TV

• Moving or speaking slowly, or feeling unusually restless

• Thoughts that you would be better off dead or of hurting yourself

If you answer “nearly every day” to thoughts of self-harm, seek immediate professional help or call 988 for crisis support.

Understanding Depression

Major depressive disorder affects more than 17 million adults in the United States each year, yet many people delay or avoid treatment. Tools like the PHQ-9 depression quiz can be an important first step toward recognizing symptoms and seeking help.

Types of Depression Include:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Persistent sadness, fatigue, sleep and appetite changes, loss of interest, and suicidal thoughts

• Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): Long-term depression lasting two years or more

• Perinatal Depression: Depression during pregnancy or after childbirth

• Psychotic Depression: Depression accompanied by hallucinations or delusions

• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Depression related to reduced sunlight exposure

• Bipolar Depression: Depressive episodes occurring as part of bipolar disorder

What Causes Depression?

Depression is a complex condition with no single cause. Research suggests several contributing factors:

• Family history: Depression often runs in families

• Brain chemistry: Imbalances in mood-regulating neurotransmitters

• Personality traits: Sensitivity, perfectionism, or negative self-beliefs

• Stressful life events: Trauma, abuse, loss, divorce, illness, or job loss

• Medical conditions: Chronic illness or medications that affect mood

Common Treatment Options for Depression

Depression is highly treatable, especially when addressed early. Treatment plans vary based on individual needs and diagnosis.

1. Antidepressant Medications

Medications such as SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclic antidepressants, and MAOIs are commonly prescribed. It may take several weeks to feel improvement, and some individuals need to try more than one medication.

2. Psychotherapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments for depression. Therapy helps identify negative thought patterns and replace them with healthier, more adaptive behaviors.

3. Holistic Therapies

Complementary approaches may include:

• Mindfulness meditation

• Yoga and movement therapy

• Acupuncture or massage

• Art or equine therapy

4. Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet rich in lean protein, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats supports brain health. Limiting sugar, alcohol, and caffeine may improve mood stability.

5. Exercise

Regular physical activity (3–5 sessions per week) has been shown to improve mood by increasing serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins.

Get Help for Depression Today

Taking the Am I Depressed Quiz is a meaningful first step toward understanding your mental health. If your results suggest moderate to severe depression, professional support can help.

The Treatment Specialist provides trusted resources, guidance, and referrals to appropriate treatment options.

👉 Take the PHQ-9 Depression Quiz
👉 Get Help Now – Speak to a Treatment Specialist