What type of questions are typically included in the PHQ-9 screening tool?

The PHQ-9 screening tool is specifically designed to assess symptoms of depression and mood disorders. It comprises a series of questions that focus on various aspects of a person's emotional well-being, particularly relating to the core symptoms of depression like sadness, lack of interest or pleasure, feelings of hopelessness, and more. By inquiring about how often individuals have experienced these symptoms over the last two weeks, the PHQ-9 helps healthcare providers determine the severity of depressive symptoms as well as guiding treatment decisions.

The other options do not align with the purpose of the PHQ-9, which is not focused on social interactions, physical activity, or academic performance. While these areas can certainly impact mental health, they are not the primary focus of the PHQ-9, which is strictly aimed at evaluating mood and depressive symptoms.