GAD-7 Anxiety Self-Test FAQ
The most common questions about GAD-7 score meaning, whether it is a diagnosis, and when to seek help. Test · Guide
Frequently asked questions
What does my GAD-7 score mean?
The GAD-7 total ranges from 0 to 21 and is read in four bands: 0-4 minimal, 5-9 mild, 10-14 moderate, and 15-21 severe anxiety. A score of 10 or higher crosses the recommended screening cut-off for generalized anxiety disorder and suggests a professional evaluation is worthwhile. The number signals severity but does not assign a diagnosis.
Is the GAD-7 result a diagnosis?
No. The GAD-7 is a screening and severity tool, not a diagnostic test. A high score does not by itself mean you have a disorder, and a low score does not fully rule out a problem worth attention. An accurate diagnosis and treatment plan require an interview and assessment by a licensed mental-health professional.
My score is high — what should I do?
If your score is moderate (10-14) or higher, consider talking to a primary-care doctor or a mental-health professional. Effective treatments exist, including cognitive behavioral therapy and, when needed, medication. If you have thoughts of self-harm or feel in crisis, contact a crisis line immediately — in the US, call or text 988.
How is the GAD-7 different from a panic-disorder test?
The GAD-7 measures diffuse, persistent "generalized" worry, whereas panic disorder is defined by sudden surges of intense fear (panic attacks). If recurrent panic attacks are your main problem, a high GAD-7 score may still under-describe it, and a separate panic assessment may be needed. Use the GAD-7 as a starting point and describe any attacks to a clinician.
What is the GAD-2 quick screen?
The GAD-2 uses only the first two GAD-7 items (feeling nervous and uncontrollable worry). A sum of 3 or more on those two items is a signal to complete the full GAD-7 and consider further assessment. It is a fast way to catch a warning sign when time is short.
Where is my result stored?
It is not stored on a server. Your answers live only in your browser via localStorage, and the share-link feature encodes your answers as a base64 code inside the URL with no external transmission. No sensitive information leaves your device, so you can use the test with confidence.
This is a self-screening tool based on the standardized GAD-7 (Spitzer 2006) and is not a medical diagnosis. In a crisis (US), call or text 988. Last updated: 2026-05-30.