What Are PHQ‑9 and GAD‑7?
The PHQ‑9 (Patient Health Questionnaire‑9) and GAD‑7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder‑7) are standardized, self‑report screening tools used worldwide to assess depression and generalized anxiety. Each tool contains a short set of questions, making them quick to complete and easy to score.
Why Use a Scoring PDF?
Scoring PDFs provide a printable format that lets you fill in your answers, calculate your total score automatically, and keep a record for future reference or discussion with a healthcare provider.
How to Access the PDFs
You can download the official PHQ‑9 and GAD‑7 scoring PDFs from reputable sources:
- American Psychiatric Association: psychiatry.org
- National Institute of Mental Health: nimh.nih.gov
- Healthline and Mayo Clinic offer printable versions on their websites.
Step‑by‑Step Scoring Guide
PHQ‑9 Scoring
Each of the 9 items is scored 0 to 3:
- 0 – Not at all
- 1 – Several days
- 2 – More than half the days
- 3 – Nearly every day
Sum the points for a total score ranging from 0 to 27. Refer to the table below for severity thresholds.
| Score Range | Severity |
|---|---|
| 0‑4 | No/minimal depression |
| 5‑9 | Mild depression |
| 10‑14 | Moderate depression |
| 15‑19 | Moderately severe depression |
| 20‑27 | Severe depression |
GAD‑7 Scoring
The 7 items follow the same 0‑3 scale. Total scores range from 0 to 21. Severity categories are:
| Score Range | Severity |
|---|---|
| 0‑4 | No/minimal anxiety |
| 5‑9 | Mild anxiety |
| 10‑14 | Moderate anxiety |
| 15‑21 | Severe anxiety |
Interpreting Your Results
A high score on either questionnaire suggests you may be experiencing significant symptoms. It does not diagnose a mental health condition, but it can prompt a conversation with a clinician.
Tracking Over Time
Save each completed PDF in a folder or use a digital tracker. Re‑score every 2‑4 weeks to monitor progress or changes after interventions.
When to Seek Professional Help
- Score ≥10 on PHQ‑9 or GAD‑7
- Persistent symptoms for more than 2 weeks
- Thoughts of self‑harm or inability to function
Contact a mental health professional or emergency services if you are in crisis.
Common Misconceptions
1. The tools are not diagnostic; they are screening instruments.
2. A single low score does not guarantee absence of symptoms.
3. Completing the questionnaire alone is not a substitute for treatment.
Practical Tips for Accurate Completion
- Answer honestly, even if the answer is "not at all."
- Use a pencil for easy editing.
- Check the scoring instructions at the bottom of each PDF.
Resources for Further Support
• MentalHealth.gov – General information and resources.
• NIMH – Research and treatment options.
• Mayo Clinic – Patient guides and FAQs.