Which assessment is commonly used to identify depression in patients?

The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) is commonly used to identify depression in patients because it consists of nine questions that directly address the symptoms of depression as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The tool helps measure the severity of depressive symptoms based on the frequency of experiences over the previous two weeks, providing a practical way for healthcare providers to assess the impact of depression on a patient's daily functioning.

The PHQ-9 is widely validated and has shown reliability in various populations, making it a preferred choice for screening and diagnosis. Clinicians can easily administer it in various settings, including primary care and mental health environments, which emphasizes its versatility and effectiveness in practice. This tool not only aids in diagnosis but also helps in tracking treatment outcomes over time, contributing to better management of patients with depressive symptoms.