The GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7) is a clinically validated, 7-question screening tool used to identify and assess the severity of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and related anxiety symptoms in adults and adolescents. It is quick to administer, easy to score, and widely used in both primary care and behavioral health settings.
Efficient Screening for Anxiety
Provides a fast, evidence-based way to detect symptoms of anxiety in medical and mental health settings.
Tracks Progress Over Time
Used to monitor symptom severity and treatment response in therapy, counseling, or medication management.
Supports Diagnosis and Referrals
Helps determine whether further evaluation or mental health referrals are needed.
Meets Documentation and Quality Metrics
Used for compliance with screening requirements in value-based care and mental health reporting.
Encourages Patient Engagement
Facilitates conversation around anxiety by giving patients a structured way to report their symptoms.
Primary Care and Family Medicine
Routinely used during wellness exams or when patients present with vague symptoms like fatigue or restlessness.
Mental Health and Counseling Practices
Included in intake evaluations and as a recurring measure during therapy.
Psychiatry Clinics
Assists with diagnostic clarity and medication management for anxiety-related conditions.
School and College Health Services
Screens students who may be struggling with academic pressure, social stress, or general anxiety.
Telehealth Behavioral Assessments
Ideal for digital delivery as part of remote or virtual mental health care.
Each item asks how often, over the past 2 weeks, the patient has experienced symptoms such as:
Each item is rated:
Total Score (0–21):
A score of 10 or higher typically indicates a clinically significant level of anxiety.
Use at Routine Visits
Screen all patients at regular intervals, especially those with stress-related complaints.
Repeat Every 2–4 Weeks
Track symptom changes and treatment effectiveness over time.
Review High Scores Promptly
Follow up on scores of 10 or more and screen for comorbid depression or suicidal ideation.
Explain the Tool Clearly
Let patients know this is a standardized way to better understand and manage anxiety.
Document in the Medical Record
Store the completed GAD-7 form securely and reference it in treatment plans.
Digital GAD-7 Forms
Enable patients to complete assessments online or via tablet before or during appointments.
Automatic Scoring and Alerts
Instantly calculate total scores and flag moderate-to-severe anxiety.
EHR Integration
Attach results directly to the patient’s mental health or primary care chart.
Track Score Trends
Use visual dashboards to show progress over time and motivate patient engagement.
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