Generalized anxiety and the GAD-7
The GAD-7 is a short, well-validated questionnaire for generalized anxiety. It asks about seven experiences over the last two weeks.
This is educational information, not a diagnosis. You can take the free, confidential screening.
Take the screeningWhat the GAD-7 measures
The seven items cover feeling nervous or on edge, not being able to stop worrying, trouble relaxing, restlessness, irritability, and a sense that something awful might happen. Each is rated from 0 to 3.
Scoring and severity bands
Scores range from 0 to 21, with cut points of 5, 10 and 15 marking mild, moderate and severe anxiety (Spitzer, Kroenke, Williams & Löwe, 2006).
Accuracy, and how it differs from depression
At a threshold of 10 or more, the GAD-7 identifies generalized anxiety with about 89% sensitivity and 82% specificity. Anxiety and depression often occur together but are distinct dimensions (Spitzer et al., 2006; DeGeorge, Grover & Streeter, 2022).
When anxiety warrants support
Persistent worry that interferes with daily life is worth discussing with a professional. Effective treatments exist, including talking therapies and, where appropriate, medication.
References
- Spitzer, R. L., Kroenke, K., Williams, J. B. W., & Löwe, B. (2006). A brief measure for assessing generalized anxiety disorder: the GAD-7. Archives of Internal Medicine, 166(10), 1092–1097. Link
- DeGeorge, K. C., Grover, M., & Streeter, G. S. (2022). Generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder in adults. American Family Physician, 106(2), 157–164. Link
Related
This page describes validated instruments and research for education only. It does not provide a diagnosis or medical advice. If you have concerns about your wellbeing, consider speaking with a qualified health professional. In the US, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available at any time.