GAD-7 Anxiety Test: Assess Your Anxiety Level

What is the GAD-7?

The GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale) is an anxiety screening questionnaire developed in 2006 by Drs. Spitzer, Kroenke, Williams and Löwe. Validated by numerous clinical studies, it is used worldwide by general practitioners, psychiatrists and psychologists to assess the severity of anxiety symptoms.

With a sensitivity of 89% and a specificity of 82% at the threshold of 10, the GAD-7 is considered one of the most reliable screening tools for generalized anxiety disorder.

How to interpret your score

The total score ranges from 0 to 21. Four severity levels are defined:

• 0 to 4 — Minimal anxiety: no intervention needed, keep up good habits
• 5 to 9 — Mild anxiety: relaxation and breathing techniques can help. Reassessment advised in 2 to 4 weeks
• 10 to 14 — Moderate anxiety: a professional consultation is recommended. The threshold of 10 is the clinical tipping point
• 15 to 21 — Severe anxiety: a thorough clinical evaluation is strongly recommended

Reliability and limits

The GAD-7 is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. A high score doesn't mean you have generalized anxiety disorder: other factors (occasional stress, fatigue, a life event) can influence the results. Conversely, a low score doesn't guarantee the absence of difficulties.

For a reliable diagnosis, only a qualified healthcare professional (doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist) can carry out a complete clinical evaluation.

The GAD-2: a 2-question pre-filter

The first two questions of the GAD-7 make up the GAD-2, an ultra-fast screen. A GAD-2 score below 3 out of 6 makes generalized anxiety disorder unlikely, allowing quick triage without the full questionnaire.

Why include breathing in anxiety management

Heart coherence and breathing exercises activate the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing cortisol and heart rate. These techniques are recommended alongside professional care for moderate to severe scores.