Depression Screening: Free, Confidential Online Test
Medically reviewed by Dr. Ashwani Dhar, MD · Reviewed June 2026
In short
Depression screening is a quick, structured way to check whether what you are feeling lines up with common symptoms of depression. OpenAccess Navigator uses the PHQ-9, a validated nine-item questionnaire, to do this in about two minutes. It is educational — a screen, not a diagnosis.
Take the free 5-minute check
Confidential. PHQ-9 + GAD-7 + safety screen, with plain-English guidance.
Symptoms a depression screen looks for
According to NIMH, depression involves a persistently low or empty mood, or loss of interest in things you used to enjoy, most of the day nearly every day for at least two weeks — enough to affect sleep, eating, work, and relationships.
A screen asks about these symptoms in a consistent way so you can see whether they cluster together, and how strongly.
What your results mean
On the PHQ-9, scores fall into bands from minimal to severe (see the table). A score of 10 or higher is the usual threshold for a positive screen. This is a signal that talking with a healthcare professional could help — not a diagnosis.
PHQ-9 score interpretation
| Score | Severity |
|---|---|
| 0–4 | Minimal |
| 5–9 | Mild |
| 10–14 | Moderate |
| 15–19 | Moderately severe |
| 20–27 | Severe |
A score is an educational indicator, not a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
What are the symptoms of depression?
Common symptoms include low or empty mood, loss of interest or pleasure, fatigue, changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of worthlessness — present most days for at least two weeks (NIMH).
How do I know if I'm depressed?
A screen like the PHQ-9 can indicate whether your symptoms are consistent with depression, but only a qualified professional can diagnose it. If symptoms persist for two weeks or more and affect daily life, consider reaching out.
Is a depression screening a diagnosis?
No. It is an educational starting point that flags whether a fuller evaluation may be worthwhile.
Read more: Depression
Small, doable steps when energy is low.
References
- 1. NIMH — Depression
- 2. Kroenke et al., 2001 — The PHQ-9: Validity of a Brief Depression Severity Measure (J Gen Intern Med)
This page is for education and general wellness only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The PHQ-9 and GAD-7 are screening tools; results are educational indicators, not a diagnosis. If you are in crisis, call or text 988 (U.S.), or call 911.