The PHQ-9 is a short questionnaire used worldwide to check for depression. For each of nine questions, think about the last two weeks and score 0 (not at all), 1 (several days), 2 (more than half the days) or 3 (nearly every day). Add up your score: 0 to 4 is minimal, 5 to 9 mild, 10 to 14 moderate, 15 to 19 moderately severe and 20 to 27 severe. A checklist or questionnaire cannot diagnose anything. It only shows whether it is worth talking to a professional.
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Over the last two weeks, how often have you been bothered by: 1. Little interest or pleasure in doing things. 2. Feeling down, depressed or hopeless. 3. Trouble falling or staying asleep, or sleeping too much. 4. Feeling tired or having little energy. 5. Poor appetite or overeating. 6. Feeling bad about yourself, or that you are a failure or have let yourself or your family down. 7. Trouble concentrating. 8. Moving or speaking so slowly that others notice, or being so fidgety or restless that you move around more than usual. 9. Thoughts that you would be better off dead, or of hurting yourself.
0 to 4: minimal symptoms. 5 to 9: mild. 10 to 14: moderate, and a good point to speak to a professional. 15 and above: moderately severe to severe, where support is strongly recommended. A score of 10 or more is commonly used as the point where further assessment is advised.
Any score other than 0 on question 9 matters, whatever your total. Please tell someone you trust and speak to a professional soon. We are not an emergency service. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, contact your local emergency number or go to the nearest hospital.
The PHQ-9 does not diagnose depression and does not look at causes such as thyroid problems, vitamin deficiency, grief or bipolar disorder. A psychologist can assess you properly.
Read about depression symptoms and depression treatment, or take the anxiety self-check. We are psychologists and do not prescribe medication. If a medical opinion would help, we will say so and work alongside your doctor or psychiatrist.
The Meeting Matters is a psychology practice in Islamabad, working since 2010. Sessions are by secure video from anywhere in Pakistan, or in person at our F-11/1 clinic in Islamabad, in Urdu, Punjabi or English, with evening and weekend slots. Message us on WhatsApp with what you are dealing with and a time that suits you. We usually reply within about 30 minutes and will suggest a suitable therapist. We are not an emergency service. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, contact your local emergency number or go to the nearest hospital.

Founder & Lead Psychologist β Couples, Marriage & Relationship Counselling

Clinical Psychologist, CBT, DBT & NLP Therapist

Clinical Psychologist β Relationship, Couples & Marriage Counselor
βI had a really great experience at Meeting Matters Clinic in F-11. The therapists here are highly professional aur unka ravaiya bohat supportive hai. Itβs not easy to find a safe space for mental health, but yahan ka mahol bohat pur-sakoon aur welcoming hai. They genuinely listen to your problems without any judgment. Highly recommended for anyone looking for good counseling in Islamabad.β
Subhan A. Β· Google Review
βI am truly grateful to Ms. Tasmiya Asghar and the team at Meeting Matters. I reached out during one of the most difficult periods of my life while dealing with grief and trying to be the best parent I could be for my children. Ms. Tasmiya's kindness, empathy, and guidance helped me navigate emotions that often felt overwhelming. She helped me understand my feelings, regain perspective, and think through practical ways of supporting my children and myself. I always felt respected, heard, and comfortable during our sessions. I would wholeheartedly recommend Ms. Tasmiya Asghar and Meeting Matters to anyone going through a challenging time and looking for professional support in a compassionate environment.β
Hashir K. Β· Google Review
βHave noticed alot of changes within myself because of the sessions I've had. My therapist is extremely kind and helpful. I've never once felt uncomfortable feeling like I'm talking to a stranger. My Dr has made me feel as if she's my own and has helped me a lot.β
Shagufta K. Β· Google Review
The Meeting Matters has been providing professional counseling, therapy and training since 2010 β over fifteen years of clinical experience supporting individuals, couples and families across Pakistan and around the world. Our psychologists are trained in evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, EMDR and psychodynamic therapy, delivered through confidential online counseling and online therapy as well as in-person sessions at our Islamabad clinic.
Alongside specialist support for this concern, you have access to our full range of services β the same experienced team, available online or in person:
One-to-one online counseling and therapy for anxiety, depression, stress and personal growth.
Online relationship counseling for communication, conflict and rebuilding trust.
Online marriage counseling for couples working through distress or disconnection.
Guided conversations before marriage, available online.
Family counseling for communication, parenting and conflict resolution.
Child and adolescent therapy with parent guidance.
Secure online therapy sessions from anywhere.
Workplace wellbeing programs for organisations.
Support for career transitions and workplace stress.
Take the first step toward better mental health. Our compassionate team is here to support you.