Advanced Health Assessment Practice Exam 2025 - Free Advanced Health Assessment Practice Questions and Study Guide

The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) is widely used as a screening tool for assessing mental health, particularly for depression. It comprises nine questions that correspond to the diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder. The PHQ-9 allows healthcare providers to evaluate the severity of depressive symptoms and monitor changes over time, making it a valuable instrument in both clinical and research settings. Its ease of use and ability to facilitate conversations about mental health with patients further contribute to its popularity in mental health assessments.

While other tools mentioned, such as the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire (GAD-7) and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), are also valid and effective in specific contexts, the PHQ-9's direct linkage to primary care practices and its systematic approach to measurement make it particularly common among screening instruments specifically for depression. The Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) focuses on anxiety and is not primarily designed for depression, showcasing the specialized nature of each tool.