Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) | Vibepedia

The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) is a suite of self-report screening tools designed to identify potential mental health conditions, primarily depression and anxiety, within primary care settings. Originating from Pfizer's PRIME-MD diagnostic tool, the PHQ was developed to be a more accessible and efficient alternative. Its most recognized iterations include the PHQ-9 for depression, the GAD-7 for generalized anxiety disorder, and the PHQ-15 for somatic symptoms. These questionnaires have become standard instruments globally, facilitating early detection and intervention for millions, though their widespread use has also sparked debates about diagnostic accuracy and over-reliance on self-reporting. The PHQ's impact is undeniable, transforming how mental health is initially assessed in non-specialist environments.