Which screening tool is recommended for detecting major depression in adults?

The recommended screening tool for detecting major depression in adults is the PHQ-9. The PHQ-9 is a self-administered questionnaire that consists of nine items related to the diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder as outlined in the DSM-5. It not only helps in identifying the presence of depressive symptoms but also provides a severity score that can guide treatment decisions.

The PHQ-2, while it can be used as an initial screening tool, is less comprehensive. It consists of only two questions that inquire about depressed mood and anhedonia over the past two weeks. While it can effectively indicate the need for further assessment, the PHQ-9 is the more established tool for confirming a diagnosis and assessing the severity of depression.

The other tools mentioned, such as the Beck Depression Inventory and the Hamilton Depression Scale, are also valid measures of depression. However, they are not recommended as primary screening tools in clinical practice according to current guidelines. The PHQ-9 is favored due to its balance of brevity and diagnostic utility, making it widely used in both primary care and specialty settings for detecting major depression in adults.