Important note
This tool estimates a PHQ-2 screening result for the past two weeks. It supports screening, documentation, and follow-up decisions, but it does not diagnose depression.
If someone appears at immediate risk or feels unsafe, seek urgent local medical or crisis support right away.
Calculator Form
Example data table
| Example | Q1 | Q2 | Total | Threshold | Positive screen | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Patient A | 0 | 1 | 1 | 3 | No | Minimal symptoms |
| Patient B | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | Yes | Mild symptoms, review context |
| Patient C | 1 | 2 | 3 | 3 | Yes | Positive brief screen |
| Patient D | 2 | 2 | 4 | 3 | Yes | Elevated symptoms |
| Patient E | 3 | 2 | 5 | 3 | Yes | High symptoms, urgent follow-up |
Formula used
PHQ-2 Total Score = Q1 + Q2
Average Item Score = (Q1 + Q2) ÷ 2
Percent of Maximum = [(Q1 + Q2) ÷ 6] × 100
Positive Screen Rule = Yes when total score is greater than or equal to the chosen threshold.
- Q1: Little interest or pleasure in doing things
- Q2: Feeling down, depressed, or hopeless
- Each item score: 0 = Not at all, 1 = Several days, 2 = More than half the days, 3 = Nearly every day
- Total score range: 0 to 6
- Common follow-up threshold: 3, though 2 may be used for greater sensitivity
How to use this calculator
- Enter patient details if you want them included in the exported report.
- Choose a response score for both PHQ-2 questions based on the last two weeks.
- Select the screening threshold. Use 3 for a common default or 2 for more sensitive screening.
- Optionally record functional difficulty and clinical notes.
- Press Calculate PHQ-2 Result to show the result above the form.
- Review the score, interpretation, graph, and export the report as CSV or PDF.
Frequently asked questions
1. What does PHQ-2 measure?
PHQ-2 is a two-question depression screening tool. It checks low mood and loss of interest over the last two weeks. It is brief and commonly used in primary care, counseling, and intake settings.
2. Is PHQ-2 a diagnosis?
No. PHQ-2 is only a screening instrument. A positive result should be followed by fuller assessment, such as PHQ-9, clinical interview, functional review, and individualized judgment.
3. What score is considered positive?
Many settings use a threshold of 3. Some use 2 to capture more possible cases. The best threshold depends on screening goals, population, workflow, and tolerance for false positives.
4. Why does this calculator show percent and average score?
Those extra metrics do not replace the standard total score. They help compare repeated screenings, create easier summaries, and support dashboards, audits, and clinician documentation.
5. Can I use PHQ-2 for repeat tracking?
Yes. Repeating the screen over time can show whether symptoms are stable, improving, or worsening. Use the same threshold and similar assessment conditions for cleaner comparisons.
6. What period do the questions cover?
The PHQ-2 asks about symptoms during the last two weeks. Responses should reflect that specific period rather than general mood across months or years.
7. Should functional difficulty affect interpretation?
Yes. Functional impairment adds important context. Even with a lower score, marked difficulty at work, school, or home may justify closer review, fuller screening, and supportive follow-up.
8. What should happen after a high score?
A high score or strong clinical concern should prompt timely follow-up. Consider fuller assessment, safety review, clinical interview, and referral pathways. Use urgent local support when immediate risk is suspected.