psychiatry

PHQ-15 for Somatic Symptom Severity

15-item somatic symptom severity scale derived from the full PHQ. Score 0–30. Assesses frequency of physical complaints with no medical explanation. Score ≥10 = high somatic symptom severity.

Stomach pain*

Back pain*

Pain in your arms, legs, or joints (knees, hips, etc.)*

Menstrual cramps or other problems with your periods (women only)*

Headaches*

Chest pain*

Dizziness*

Fainting spells*

Feeling your heart pound or race*

Shortness of breath*

Constipation, loose bowels, or diarrhoea*

Nausea, gas, or indigestion*

Feeling tired or having low energy*

Trouble sleeping*

Sexual problems*

References

Kroenke K, Spitzer RL, Williams JB. The PHQ-15: validity of a new measure for evaluating the severity of somatic symptoms. Psychosom Med. 2002;64(2):258–266.

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Pathways

Acute Behavioural Disturbance / Rapid Tranquillisation · RCEM 2022; RCPsych 2022; NICE NG10
Self-Harm Presentation · NICE NG225 (2022)
Capacity Assessment (Mental Capacity Act) · MCA 2005; Code of Practice
Acute Psychosis Management · NICE CG178 2014
Depression Management · NICE CG90 2022
Lithium Therapy Monitoring · NICE CG185 / BNF

Decision support only — verify against MDCalc, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.

References

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