The questions
What the GAD-7 asks
Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by the following problems? Each question is answered on this scale: not at all, several days, more than half the days, nearly every day.
- 1Feeling nervous, anxious, or on edge
- 2Not being able to stop or control worrying
- 3Worrying too much about different things
- 4Trouble relaxing
- 5Being so restless that it is hard to sit still
- 6Becoming easily annoyed or irritable
- 7Feeling afraid, as if something awful might happen
What is the GAD-7?
The Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) asks seven questions about common anxiety symptoms. Each answer scores from 0 to 3, giving a total from 0 to 21.
It was developed by Spitzer, Kroenke, Williams and Löwe. Scores of 5, 10 and 15 mark mild, moderate and severe anxiety, and a score of 10 or more is the usual point to seek an assessment.
Although it was built for generalised anxiety, it also picks up panic, social anxiety and post-traumatic stress reasonably well. It is a screen, not a diagnosis.
How the score works
| Score | Result | What it usually means |
|---|---|---|
| 0–4 | Minimal | Your answers suggest little or no anxiety right now. |
| 5–9 | Mild | Some anxiety is present. Self-help such as regular sleep, exercise and slow breathing can help; retake the test in a couple of weeks. |
| 10–14 | Moderate | Your anxiety is at a level where talking to a licensed professional is usually recommended. |
| 15–21 | Severe | Your anxiety is severe. Please speak to a psychologist or psychiatrist soon. |
FAQ
Common questions
What GAD-7 score is considered anxiety?
Scores of 5–9 suggest mild, 10–14 moderate and 15–21 severe anxiety. A score of 10 or more is the usual point to talk to a professional.
Is the GAD-7 accurate?
In its original study a score of 10 or more identified generalised anxiety disorder with 89% sensitivity and 82% specificity. A clinician still needs to confirm any diagnosis.
Are my answers saved?
No. The test runs in your browser and your answers are never sent to us or stored.
What helps with anxiety?
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is the first-line treatment. Our guide to anxiety treatment in Pakistan explains the options.
This test is a screening tool for general information, not a diagnosis. If you are in crisis, call Rescue 1122 or use the free helplines.