GAD-7 Test: Free Online Anxiety Screening
Medically reviewed by Dr. Ashwani Dhar, MD · Reviewed June 2026
In short
The GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7) is a validated seven-question screening tool for anxiety. It asks how often, over the last two weeks, you have been bothered by symptoms such as feeling nervous, being unable to stop worrying, and feeling on edge. Each item is scored 0 to 3, for a total of 0 to 21. It is a screen, not a diagnosis.
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What the GAD-7 measures
Developed by Spitzer and colleagues (2006), the GAD-7 was designed to identify probable generalized anxiety disorder and to gauge symptom severity. It is brief, taking only a minute or two, and is one of the most widely used anxiety screens worldwide.
What your GAD-7 score means
The standard severity bands are: 0–4 minimal, 5–9 mild, 10–14 moderate, and 15–21 severe. A score of 10 or higher is a commonly used cutoff suggesting probable anxiety that may warrant further evaluation.
As with any screen, the number is a guide, not a diagnosis. A clinician interprets it alongside your history and how much the symptoms affect your daily life.
GAD-7 score interpretation
| Score | Severity |
|---|---|
| 0–4 | Minimal |
| 5–9 | Mild |
| 10–14 | Moderate |
| 15–21 | Severe |
A score is an educational indicator, not a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
What is the GAD-7?
The GAD-7 is a validated seven-item questionnaire that screens for anxiety by asking how often you have experienced common symptoms over the last two weeks. Each item scores 0–3 for a total of 0–21.
What GAD-7 score indicates anxiety?
A total of 10 or higher is a commonly used cutoff suggesting probable anxiety worth a closer look. Bands are 5 (mild), 10 (moderate), and 15 (severe). A score is not a diagnosis.
Is the GAD-7 the same as the PHQ-9?
No. The GAD-7 screens for anxiety; the PHQ-9 screens for depression. They are often used together because anxiety and depression frequently overlap. OpenAccess Navigator includes both.
Read more: Anxiety
Understanding and easing the loop of worry.
References
- 1. Pfizer — PHQ & GAD-7 screeners (official)
- 2. NIMH — Anxiety Disorders
This page is for education and general wellness only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The PHQ-9 and GAD-7 are screening tools; results are educational indicators, not a diagnosis. If you are in crisis, call or text 988 (U.S.), or call 911.