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PHQ-4: Ultra-Brief Anxiety & Depression Screen

Last updated: March 16, 2026

Quick answer

What is this?
The PHQ-4, an ultra-brief 4-question screening that simultaneously checks for both anxiety and depression.
Who is it for?
Anyone who wants the quickest possible validated check for both anxiety and depression symptoms.
Bottom line
A subscale score of 3 or higher is a screening threshold for follow-up questions, not evidence of a disorder. This tool is informational and not a diagnosis or substitute for professional care.

Published by MindCheck Tools

Published: Last reviewed:

Reviewed by Jason Ramirez, CADC-II with 11 years of clinical experience in substance use counseling.

Review covers source alignment, scoring, limitations, and safety language within the reviewer's stated credential scope; it is not diagnosis or individual care.

Last reviewed: March 20, 2026

Before you begin

Review the privacy and educational-use limits before answering this self-check.

Please understand:

  • This is not a diagnosis and does not replace professional evaluation.
  • Results are educational only, they describe symptom levels, not clinical conditions.
  • Only a qualified healthcare professional can diagnose or treat conditions.
  • Your answers are processed entirely in your browser and are not sent to MindCheck Tools. Pages that offer optional local saving say so before use.
  • If you are in immediate danger or having thoughts of self-harm, please contact emergency services or a crisis hotline now.