Am I Depressed? Take the First Step in Houston, TX
Wondering whether what you are feeling is more than just a passing low mood? Taking a moment to assess your symptoms can be the first step toward feeling like yourself again. At Houston West TMS, board-certified psychiatrist Dr. William K. Drell uses a simple, validated screening tool to help you understand the severity of your depression and whether Deep TMS may be an option for you.
Request a TMS AppointmentHow Depressed Are You?
The PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire) is a brief, widely used self-assessment that measures the presence and severity of depressive symptoms. It asks about how often you have experienced feelings such as low mood, loss of interest, fatigue, sleep changes, and difficulty concentrating over the past two weeks. Completing it takes only a few minutes and gives you a clearer picture of where you stand.
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A score of 10 or more suggests that your depression may be moderate to severe, and that Brainsway Deep TMS therapy may be a beneficial treatment option worth discussing with Dr. Drell. Many patients who score in this range have already tried antidepressant medications or talk therapy without achieving the relief they hoped for. Deep TMS offers a noninvasive alternative that can significantly reduce symptoms even when other treatments have fallen short.
Remember, a screening tool is a starting point, not a diagnosis. Only a qualified psychiatrist can evaluate your full history and determine the right path forward. If your score concerns you, or if depression is interfering with your work, relationships, or daily life, we encourage you to reach out. Learn more about TMS for Depression, explore our Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation services, or discover the advantages of Brainsway Deep TMS.
If you have suicidal thoughts or feel you may be in crisis, please seek immediate help by calling or texting 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. To find out whether Deep TMS is right for you, call Houston West TMS at (713) 464-4455 or request a consultation online today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PHQ-9 depression screening?
The PHQ-9 is a validated nine-question self-assessment that measures the frequency and severity of depressive symptoms over the previous two weeks. It is commonly used by mental health professionals to help guide diagnosis and treatment decisions.
What does my PHQ-9 score mean?
A score of 10 or higher generally indicates moderate to severe depression and suggests that you may benefit from a professional evaluation. At Houston West TMS, a score of 10 or more suggests that Deep TMS may be an option worth discussing with Dr. Drell.
Is an online depression screening a diagnosis?
No. A screening tool is a helpful starting point, but it cannot replace a professional evaluation. Only a board-certified psychiatrist like Dr. Drell can review your full history and provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendation.
Can Deep TMS help if I scored high on the assessment?
Often, yes. Patients with moderate to severe depression, especially those who have not found relief from medication or therapy, are frequently good candidates for Brainsway Deep TMS. Dr. Drell can determine your eligibility during an initial consultation.
What should I do if I am having thoughts of self-harm?
If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, please seek help right away by calling or texting 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or go to your nearest emergency room. Your safety is the most important priority.
How do I schedule a consultation at Houston West TMS?
You can schedule a consultation by calling our office at (713) 464-4455 or by requesting an appointment online. Dr. Drell will evaluate your symptoms and help you determine the best treatment path.