How Anxious Are You?

The GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale) is a brief, validated screening tool developed by Spitzer, Kroenke, Williams, and Löwe in 2006. It is one of the most widely used anxiety screeners in primary care and mental health settings worldwide, and is the basis of the test on this site.

You answer 7 questions about how often you have been bothered by specific anxiety symptoms over the past two weeks. Each answer scores 0 to 3, for a total of 0 to 21. Standard cut-points are: 0–4 minimal, 5–9 mild, 10–14 moderate, and 15–21 severe anxiety.

No. The GAD-7 is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. A high score suggests it may be worth speaking with a licensed clinician, who can perform a full evaluation. A low score does not rule out anxiety either. Use this as a starting point, not the final word.

Yes. Anxiety disorders are among the most treatable mental health conditions. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is considered first-line treatment, and medications such as SSRIs help many people. Lifestyle changes — sleep, exercise, reduced caffeine, social connection — also have substantial evidence behind them.

Completely. Your answers are processed only in your browser and are never sent to or stored on our servers. We do not collect any health information that could be used to identify you.