PHQ-2 Depression Screening
Complete the PHQ-2, a 2-question ultra-brief depression screener. Score ≥3 has 83% sensitivity and 92% specificity for major depression and warrants follow-up with the full PHQ-9. Assesses anhedonia and depressed mood.
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83% sensitivity, 92% specificity Assesses anhedonia + depressed mood First-step before PHQ-9
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Why: Rapid depression screening in primary care and clinical settings.
How: Each question scored 0-3. Total 0-6. Cutoff ≥3 for PHQ-9.
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Screening Questions
Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by:
For informational purposes only — not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before acting on results.
🏥 Health Facts
PHQ-2: 2 questions, ~1 min, 0-6 score
— Arch Intern Med
The PHQ-2 is a 2-question ultra-brief depression screener. It assesses anhedonia (Q1) and depressed mood (Q2). Score ≥3 has 83% sensitivity and 92% specificity for major depression and warrants follow-up with the full PHQ-9.
Key Takeaways
- • PHQ-2 screens two cardinal symptoms: anhedonia and depressed mood
- • Score ≥3 warrants full PHQ-9 or clinical interview
- • Ideal for rapid screening in primary care and emergency settings
- • Not a diagnostic tool — positive screen requires further evaluation
Did You Know?
How Does PHQ-2 Work?
Q1: Anhedonia
Little interest or pleasure in doing things — core feature of depression.
Q2: Depressed Mood
Feeling down, depressed, or hopeless.
Scoring
0 = Not at all, 1 = Several days, 2 = More than half the days, 3 = Nearly every day (past 2 weeks).
Expert Tips
Score Interpretation
| Score | Level | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 0-2 | Minimal | Routine monitoring |
| 3-4 | Mild/Possible | PHQ-9 recommended |
| 5-6 | Major Likely | Clinical evaluation |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PHQ-2?
The PHQ-2 is a 2-question ultra-brief depression screener assessing anhedonia and depressed mood. Score ≥3 has 83% sensitivity and 92% specificity for major depression and warrants PHQ-9 follow-up.
What do PHQ-2 scores mean?
0-2: Minimal depression risk. 3-4: Possible depression, PHQ-9 recommended. 5-6: Major depression likely, clinical evaluation needed.
Is PHQ-2 a diagnosis?
No. PHQ-2 is a screening tool. A positive screen (≥3) indicates need for full PHQ-9 or clinical interview.
How accurate is PHQ-2?
At cutoff of 3: 83% sensitivity and 92% specificity for major depression. Validated across primary care and clinical settings.
When to use PHQ-2?
Rapid screening in primary care, emergency departments, and settings where time is limited. First-step before full PHQ-9.
What if my score is 3 or higher?
Complete the full PHQ-9 for comprehensive assessment. Discuss results with your healthcare provider.
Key Statistics
Official Data Sources
⚠️ Disclaimer: This calculator is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988) — available 24/7. Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741.
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