Below are several self-assessment tools that you can use to get a better idea of how you have been feeling. Use these tools as a guide only and remember that this is not a diagnosis. Your results from these tools should not be used in place of a doctor’s evaluation.
Depression
Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9)
This is a 9-question tool that can help you begin to explore whether the feelings, thoughts or behaviors you may be experiencing could be depression. It can also help you monitor the severity of your depression and your response to treatment. If you believe you may be suffering from symptoms of depression, talk to your doctor.
Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9)
Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) Sample
Source: Korenke K, Spitzer RL, & Williams JB, (2001). The PHQ-9. Journal of general internal medicine, 16(9). 606-613.
Anxiety
Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7)
This is a 7-question tool that can help you begin to explore whether the feelings, thoughts or behaviors you may be experiencing could be anxiety. It can also help you monitor the severity of your anxiety and your response to treatment. If you believe you may be suffering from symptoms of anxiety, talk to your doctor.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale
Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale Sample
Source: Spitzer RL, roenke K, Williams JBW, Lowe B. (2006). A brief measure for assessing generalized anxiety disorder: The GAD-7. Archives of internal medicine, 166(10), 1092-1097.
Sleep
Insomnia Severity Index (ISI)
This is a 7-question tool that assesses your current sleeping habits and problems you may have related to your sleep. It can help you begin to explore the role that sleep and possible sleep problems play in your daily life. If you are having trouble sleeping or if you believe you may be suffering symptoms of depression, talk to your doctor. Together, you can determine the right treatment plan for you.
Insomnia Severity Index Sample
Source: Bastien CH, Vallieres A, Morin CM. (2001). Validation of the insomnia severity index as an outcome measure for insomnia research. Sleep medicine, 2, 297-307.
Substance Use
CAGE: A tool for evaluating the signs of substance abuse
This is a 4-question tool that can help you determine whether you may be displaying the signs of substance abuse or dependency. If you think you might have a problem with drugs or alcohol, talk to your doctor. Together, you can determine the right treatment plan for you.