Anxiety Screening Score (GAD-7 Simplified) Formula

Understand the math behind the anxiety screening score (gad-7 simplified). Each variable explained with a worked example.

Formulas Used

Anxiety Score

total_score = nervous + worry + restless + irritable + afraid

Max Possible Score

severity_indicator = 15

Variables

VariableDescriptionDefault
nervousFeeling nervous or on edge (0-3)1
worryNot being able to stop worrying (0-3)1
restlessFeeling restless or unable to sit still (0-3)1
irritableBecoming easily irritated (0-3)1
afraidFeeling afraid something awful might happen (0-3)0

How It Works

Anxiety Screening

This simplified tool is inspired by validated anxiety questionnaires. It is NOT a diagnostic tool.

Scoring Guide

| Score | Severity | |---|---| | 0-4 | Minimal anxiety | | 5-9 | Mild anxiety | | 10-14 | Moderate anxiety | | 15 | Severe anxiety |

Important

This screening tool does not replace professional evaluation. If you score 10 or above, or if anxiety is interfering with your life, please speak with a healthcare provider.

Worked Example

Rating each symptom over the past two weeks.

nervous = 1worry = 1restless = 1irritable = 1afraid = 0
  1. 01Nervous = 1, Worry = 1, Restless = 1
  2. 02Irritable = 1, Afraid = 0
  3. 03Total = 1 + 1 + 1 + 1 + 0 = 4 (Minimal anxiety)