psychiatry

Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology (QIDS)

16-item (QIDS-C clinician-rated; QIDS-SR self-report) measure of depression severity based on 9 DSM-IV symptom domains. Score 0–27. Used in clinical trials and STAR*D study.

Sleep onset — time to fall asleep (past 7 days, worst day)*

Sleep during the night*

Early morning awakening*

Sleeping too much*

Feeling sad*

Decreased appetite*

Increased appetite*

Concentration / decision making*

Outlook (self) — view of self*

Suicidal ideation*

Involvement — general interest*

Energy level*

Feeling slowed down*

Feeling restless*

Score interpretation

None/Minimal 0–5

QIDS 0–5 — none or minimal depression

→ Monitor; no pharmacotherapy needed; lifestyle review

Mild 6–10

QIDS 6–10 — mild depression

→ Psychoeducation; watchful waiting; consider CBT or guided self-help; reassess in 4 weeks

Moderate 11–15

QIDS 11–15 — moderate depression

→ Antidepressant therapy (SSRI); CBT; monitor suicidal ideation (item 10); reassess at 6 weeks; psychiatry referral if no response

Severe 16–20

QIDS 16–20 — severe depression

→ Urgent psychiatry review; aggressive pharmacotherapy; assess risk; consider hospitalisation; combination therapy

Very Severe 21–27

QIDS 21–27 — very severe depression

→ Immediate psychiatric assessment; inpatient admission consideration; electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be warranted; intensive monitoring

Interpretation bands for the QIDS. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.

References

Rush AJ et al. The 16-Item Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology (QIDS), Clinician Rating (QIDS-C), and Self-Report (QIDS-SR): a psychometric evaluation in patients with chronic major depression. Biol Psychiatry. 2003;54(5):573–583.

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Calculators

Drugs

Pathways

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

Score interpretation

References

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