About the GAD-7 Questionnaire

The Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7) scale is a self-administered screening tool designed to assess the severity of generalized anxiety. It asks how frequently, over the last two weeks, you’ve experienced seven symptoms related to anxiety. Each item is scored from 0 to 3, with higher scores indicating more severe symptoms. A total score below 5 suggests minimal anxiety, 5 to 9 indicates mild anxiety, 10 to 14 points to moderate anxiety, and 15 or more reflects severe anxiety. Although originally developed for use in primary care settings, the GAD-7 is widely employed in research and mental health clinics because of its simplicity and reliability.

This calculator helps you compute your score quickly and offers a brief explanation of what the score means. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your symptoms are concerning or persistently interfere with your daily life, consider contacting a mental health professional to discuss them further. The GAD-7 can be a useful conversation starter, but clinical evaluation involves a broader exploration of your history, stressors, and coping mechanisms.

Using the Calculator

To use this tool, simply select how often each statement has applied to you over the past two weeks. The options range from “Not at all” to “Nearly every day.” After answering all seven questions, click the Calculate button. The calculator sums the values of your selections and displays the total score along with an interpretation. You can revisit the questionnaire whenever you want to track changes in your anxiety level, perhaps after starting therapy, medication, or lifestyle adjustments.

Because the questions refer to the last two weeks, it can be helpful to note your answers in a journal or digital tracker. That way, you can see how your score fluctuates over time and share this information with your therapist or physician. Many people find that simply paying attention to symptoms can foster greater self-awareness and prompt earlier intervention if anxiety begins to rise.

Interpreting Your Score

A score below 5 generally signifies minimal anxiety, often considered within the range of typical day-to-day worry. Scores between 5 and 9 fall into the mild category, meaning symptoms are present but may not be overwhelming. Moderate anxiety—scores from 10 to 14—suggests persistent or significant symptoms that might benefit from professional support. Severe anxiety, marked by scores of 15 or more, often requires comprehensive treatment, possibly including therapy, medication, or both. Keep in mind that these thresholds are guidelines, not strict rules. People experience anxiety differently, so discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider.

Some individuals use the GAD-7 alongside other tools like the PHQ-9 depression questionnaire to monitor overall mental health. Because anxiety and depression frequently co-occur, tracking both can provide a more complete picture of your well-being. If you notice your scores trending upward, you might explore stress management techniques, regular exercise, or therapy sessions to address underlying issues. Conversely, seeing scores decrease can reinforce that your coping strategies are working.

Benefits and Limitations

The GAD-7 is valued for its brevity and research-backed scoring system. It takes only a few minutes to complete and yields results comparable to longer diagnostic interviews in many cases. However, it does not capture all types of anxiety disorders—such as panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, or phobias—and it focuses on symptoms over a two-week window. Life events, physical health, and medication side effects can also influence responses. Think of the questionnaire as a snapshot rather than a comprehensive assessment.

If your score suggests moderate or severe anxiety, consider seeking a professional evaluation. Therapists and physicians can offer additional screening tools, discuss treatment options, and tailor approaches to your unique situation. Even if your score falls in the minimal or mild range, you may still benefit from stress reduction techniques or counseling if anxiety impacts your quality of life.

Next Steps

After calculating your score, take some time to reflect on factors that may be contributing to your anxiety. Do you notice patterns related to work, relationships, or health concerns? Are there coping strategies that help you feel calmer? Writing down your observations can provide clarity and serve as a useful reference if you decide to consult a professional. Remember that mental health is a journey, and tools like this calculator are meant to support you along the way.