Depression Screening — PHQ-9
Z&Z Wellness Alexandria, VA
Are You Experiencing Symptoms of Depression?
Take this free, confidential depression screening to evaluate your symptoms. The PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) is a clinically validated assessment tool used by healthcare providers nationwide. It evaluates how frequently you've experienced nine common symptoms of depression over the past two weeks.
At Z&Z Wellness in Alexandria, Virginia, we offer this screening as a confidential starting point for patients exploring treatment options—including ketamine therapy for treatment-resistant depression. Your results are not stored or shared. This is a self-assessment tool and does not replace a professional diagnosis. Schedule Your Free 15 Minute Q&A
Understanding Your Score
Score Severity Recommended Next Step
0–4 Minimal No action needed. Continue healthy habits.
5–9 Mild Monitor symptoms. Exercise, sleep, and social connection help.
10–14 Moderate Professional evaluation recommended.
15–19 Mod. Severe Connect with a mental health provider.
20–27 Severe Seek help now. In crisis? Call or text 988.
This screening is not a diagnosis. If your score is 10 or above, or if you answered “1” or higher on question 9 (thoughts of self-harm), please reach out to a professional immediately. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Help is available 24 hours a day.
Ketamine Therapy for Treatment-Resistant Depression
For patients who have not found relief through conventional treatments, ketamine therapy offers a clinically supported alternative. Unlike traditional antidepressants, which don't work for roughly 30% of patients ketamine can produce noticeable improvements in mood within days. Research published in the American Journal of Psychiatry and other peer-reviewed journals has demonstrated ketamine’s rapid antidepressant effects, particularly in patients with treatment-resistant depression. Each treatment is tailored to the individual patient’s needs and medical history. Learn more:
Ketamine Therapy at Z&Z Wellness
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What does my PHQ-9 score mean and when should I seek treatment?
PHQ-9 scores fall into five ranges: 1–4 minimal depression, 5–9 mild, 10–14 moderate, 15–19 moderately severe, and 20–27 severe. Any score of 10 or above warrants a clinical evaluation. If you've been experiencing symptoms for more than two weeks — including low mood, loss of interest, sleep changes, or difficulty concentrating — it's time to speak with a provider. At Z&Z Wellness in Alexandria, VA, we use your PHQ-9 results as part of a comprehensive intake to determine whether ketamine therapy or another treatment is appropriate for you.
Q2: Can ketamine therapy help with depression that hasn't responded to antidepressants?
Yes. Ketamine is specifically used for treatment-resistant depression — meaning depression that has not improved after trying two or more antidepressant medications at adequate doses. Unlike SSRIs, which can take 4–6 weeks to work, ketamine acts on NMDA glutamate receptors and can produce significant symptom relief within hours to days. Clinical studies show response rates of 60–70% in patients who previously did not respond to traditional treatments. At Z&Z Wellness, we offer IV, IM, and oral ketamine therapy for patients with treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, and anxiety in Northern Virginia.
Q3: Is the PHQ-9 depression test accurate?
Yes. The PHQ-9 is one of the most widely validated depression screening tools in clinical medicine. It has been studied in thousands of patients and consistently demonstrates strong sensitivity and specificity for detecting major depressive disorder. However, it is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. A score alone does not confirm a diagnosis — it indicates whether a full clinical evaluation is needed. At Z&Z Wellness, your PHQ-9 score is always reviewed by our board-certified nurse practitioner as part of a comprehensive assessment before any treatment is recommended.
Q4: What should I do after taking the PHQ-9 if my score is high?
If your PHQ-9 score is 10 or above, the most important next step is to speak with a qualified provider as soon as possible. A high score means your symptoms are significant enough to warrant clinical attention — especially if traditional treatments like antidepressants have not worked. At Z&Z Wellness in Alexandria, VA, we offer a free consultation to review your results and discuss whether ketamine therapy, IV treatment, or another approach may be right for you. You can book directly through our website or contact us at transformation@zzketamineivhydra.com.