Free Depression Test for Adults (PHQ-9) Australia
Take the PHQ-9 depression screening test. Confidential, clinically validated, with immediate crisis support if needed. - serving Australia
Depression (Major Depressive Disorder) affects 1 in 7 Australians in their lifetime. It's more than feeling sad - it's a medical condition that impacts mood, thoughts, physical health, and daily functioning.
Common symptoms include:
- Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)
- Fatigue and loss of energy
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Thoughts of death or self-harm
Depression is treatable. With appropriate support (therapy, medication, lifestyle changes), most people recover and manage symptoms effectively.
The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) is the most widely used depression screening tool globally. Developed by Pfizer Inc., it's used by GPs, psychiatrists, and researchers to assess depression severity.
How the Test Works
The PHQ-9 asks about 9 depression symptoms experienced over the past 2 weeks, based on DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. You'll rate each symptom from "Not at all" to "Nearly every day".
Scoring & Interpretation
- 0-4: Minimal Depression (no treatment typically needed)
- 5-9: Mild Depression (monitor symptoms, self-care strategies)
- 10-14: Moderate Depression (consider counseling or treatment)
- 15-19: Moderately Severe Depression (treatment recommended)
- 20-27: Severe Depression (professional treatment recommended)
Crisis Screening (Question 9)
Question 9 asks about thoughts of self-harm or suicide. If you indicate experiencing these thoughts, we'll immediately display crisis support resources. Your safety is our priority.
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Immediate Results
Get your depression severity score and interpretation instantly.
Crisis Resources
Immediate crisis support information if needed (Question 9).
Downloadable Report
Create an account to view results and download PDF for your GP.
The PHQ-9 is a screening tool, not a diagnostic test. A positive result means you may have depression symptoms worth discussing with a healthcare provider. Only a qualified GP, psychiatrist, or psychologist can provide an official clinical diagnosis of depression.
If your results suggest depression, we recommend:
- Sharing your results with your GP
- Requesting a referral to a psychiatrist or psychologist if needed
- Undergoing comprehensive clinical assessment
How accurate is the PHQ-9 depression test?
The PHQ-9 has been validated in thousands of studies and shows high sensitivity (88%) and specificity (88%) for detecting major depression. It's used worldwide by healthcare providers.
What if I have thoughts of self-harm?
The PHQ-9 includes crisis screening (Question 9). If you indicate experiencing these thoughts, we'll immediately display crisis support resources including Lifeline (13 11 14) and emergency contacts.
Can this test diagnose depression?
No. The PHQ-9 identifies adults who may have depression. Only a qualified GP, psychiatrist, or psychologist can provide an official clinical diagnosis of depression.
Need immediate support? If you're experiencing a crisis:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)
- Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 (24/7)
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 (24/7)
- Emergency Services: 000 (immediate danger)