The GAD-7 (Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7) is a 7-question validated screening tool used to assess the severity of anxiety. It is used worldwide by GPs, psychologists, and psychiatrists. Each question scores 0-3, giving a total score of 0-21.

What do GAD-7 scores mean?

GAD-7 scores are interpreted as: 0-4 minimal anxiety, 5-9 mild anxiety, 10-14 moderate anxiety, 15-21 severe anxiety. A score of 10 or above generally warrants further clinical assessment and may indicate a need for treatment.

What is the difference between GAD-7 and PHQ-9?

The GAD-7 screens for anxiety while the PHQ-9 screens for depression. They are often used together since anxiety and depression frequently co-occur. Both are validated, free to use, and widely used in general practice.

GAD-7 Anxiety Screening

A validated 7-question tool measuring anxiety severity. The companion screening tool to the PHQ-9 for depression.

📋 Source: GAD-7 (Spitzer et al., Arch Intern Med 2006). Validated screening tool for generalised anxiety disorder. PHQ Screeners (Spitzer et al. 2006). Free to use
Your doctor or healthcare provider knows your history and circumstances — always follow their personalised advice over general information.

Over the last 2 weeks, how often have you been bothered by the following problems? Your responses are completely private.

Question 1 of 7 0%

The Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) is a validated self-report questionnaire developed by Spitzer, Kroenke, Williams, and Löwe (2006). It screens for generalised anxiety disorder and measures anxiety severity.

The GAD-7 is the most widely used anxiety screening tool in primary care. It consists of 7 items based on the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for generalised anxiety disorder, each rated on a 4-point scale from "not at all" to "nearly every day."

It is commonly used alongside the PHQ-9 (depression) as a paired screening set. Together, they provide a comprehensive picture of the two most common mental health conditions seen in general practice.

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions in Australia, affecting around 1 in 4 people at some point in their lives. While some anxiety is normal and even helpful, generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) involves persistent, excessive worry that is difficult to control and interferes with daily life.

Common symptoms include: constant worrying, feeling restless or on edge, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, sleep problems, fatigue, and avoiding situations that trigger worry.

Treatment is effective and may include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), medication (SSRIs, SNRIs, or buspirone), relaxation techniques, regular exercise, and lifestyle modifications.

Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 — specialises in anxiety and depression

Lifeline: 13 11 14 — 24/7 crisis support

SANE Australia: 1800 18 SANE (7263) — complex mental health support

13YARN: 13 92 76 — for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

In an emergency, call 000.