I've been using the Depression Test app for a while now, and it's become a helpful tool for checking in on my mental well-being. This app, as the name suggests, is designed to help users screen for symptoms of depression. It's not a diagnostic tool, but more of a self-assessment resource. I first downloaded it from the Google Play Store a couple of years ago, and it's been regularly updated since. It's a completely free download with no in-app purchases, which is a huge plus. You don't even need to register or create an account to use the core features, making it very private and accessible. I've noticed it has over a million installs on Google Play, which shows a lot of people find it useful.

Using the app is straightforward. You open it, and it presents you with a series of standardized questionnaires, like the PHQ-9, which is commonly used by professionals. You answer questions about your mood, sleep, and energy levels over the past two weeks. After completing a test, you get an instant score and a breakdown of what that score might indicate, ranging from minimal to severe depression. A good tip is to take the test at a consistent time, maybe once a month, to track any changes over time. The app also provides links to educational resources and suggestions for seeking professional help, which I think is really responsible.

Compared to other mental health apps like 'Moodpath' or 'Youper', I keep coming back to this one for its simplicity and focus. Some other apps try to do too much with journals, chatbots, and daily exercises, which can feel overwhelming when you just want a quick, anonymous check. The Depression Test app does one thing and does it well. It doesn't clutter the experience with ads or push for a subscription. For a free, no-fuss self-assessment tool that respects your privacy, this app is my go-to choice over more complex alternatives.

• 🎯 Focused Self-Assessment: Unlike broader wellness apps, this app is dedicated solely to depression screening using clinically-validated tools like the PHQ-9. It provides a clear, structured check-up without distractions.
• 📊 Instant, Clear Results: After completing a questionnaire, you get an immediate score with a plain-language interpretation. It categorizes your results (e.g., mild, moderate) and explains what each level means, which is very informative.
• 🔒 Privacy-First Approach: The app requires no sign-up or personal info to use its core test. Your results aren't stored on a server linked to you, which makes it feel much more private than apps that require an account.
• 📚 Resource Guidance: It doesn't just give a score and leave you hanging. The app includes a resources section with information on depression and, crucially, direct suggestions for getting professional help, which is vital.

• ✅ Truly Free & No Ads: Many similar apps, like 'MoodTools', have free versions with ads or limited tests. This app is completely free with no ads or paywalls, which is rare and fantastic.
• ✅ Zero Commitment: You can download, install, and use it immediately without an account. This beats apps like 'Sanvello' that require registration before you can even see what they offer.
• ✅ Pure Utility: It strips away all fluff. Compared to 'Youper' with its AI chatbot, this app is a straightforward tool, which I prefer when I just want a quick, serious assessment.

• ⚠️ Limited Functionality: It's only a test. If you want daily mood tracking, journaling, or coping exercises, you'll need another app like 'Daylio' or 'Woebot' alongside it.
• ⚠️ Basic Interface: The design is functional but very simple. Compared to more polished apps like 'Headspace' (for meditation), it lacks visual appeal and interactive elements.
• ⚠️ No Progress Tracking: While you can retake tests, the app doesn't have a built-in feature to chart your score history over time, which some other health apps offer.