How many questions are in the PHQ-9 assessment?

The PHQ-9 assessment consists of 9 questions. This tool is specifically designed to screen for depression and to facilitate the diagnosis, severity assessment, and monitoring of treatment response. Each question in the PHQ-9 relates to the frequency of symptoms experienced over the past two weeks, aligning with the criteria established in the DSM-5 for diagnosing major depressive disorder. Thus, the emphasis on 9 questions makes it a succinct yet comprehensive instrument for assessing depressive symptoms in various clinical settings, ensuring that healthcare providers can quickly evaluate a patient's mental health status.