Table 1.

PHQ-9^a scores and corresponding responses and resources utilized in a cross-sectional survey examining the feasibility and acceptability of a mental health screening and referral chatbot among a sample of US adults.

PHQ-9 score range	Depression level	Tabatha response	Resources provided
0-4	Minimal	Thank you for answering those questions, you did great! Based on your responses, you have a score of ____. Based on this score, you may be experiencing none or minimal depression symptoms.	Our focus should be on prevention methods and techniques. This resource may help you recognize symptoms of depression should you experience them in the future [24]. This video may help and give you more information about how you could be feeling [25].
5-9	Mild	Thank you for answering those questions, you did great! Based on your responses, you have a score of ____. Based on this score, you may be experiencing mild depression symptoms.	I would like to offer you some resources and tips to help address how you have been feeling. To learn more about what you may be experiencing and to find some helpful tips for reducing depression symptoms, visit [24].
10-14	Moderate	Thank you for answering those questions, you did great! Based on your responses, you have a score of ____. Based on this score, you may be experiencing moderate depression symptoms.	I would like to offer you some resources and tips to help address how you have been feeling. To learn more about what you may be experiencing and to find some helpful tips for reducing depression symptoms, visit [24].
15-19	Moderately severe	Thank you for answering those questions, you did great! Based on your responses, you have a score of ____. Based on this score, you may be experiencing moderately severe depression symptoms.	The Crisis Text Line may be able to further assist you with the symptoms you are experiencing. Text HOME to 741741 and a team member will support you and connect you to the appropriate resources. Or if you would prefer to speak with a person on the phone, dial 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
20-27	Severe	Thank you for answering those questions, you did great! Based on your responses, you have a score of ____. Based on this score, you may be experiencing severe depression symptoms.	I would like to connect you to a Crisis Support Lifeline. Please follow this link for support [26]. You can also text HOME to 741741 if you would prefer. An additional resource for you can be found here [27].

^aPHQ-9: Patient Health Questionnaire.