What is anxiety?
Anxiety is a natural response that prepares the body to face a threat. It becomes a problem when it appears too often, too intensely, or without a clear reason, and starts to interfere with sleep, concentration, relationships or everyday life. Common signs include constant worry, restlessness, irritability, muscle tension, a racing heart, and difficulty switching off.
What does the GAD-7 anxiety test measure?
The GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7) is a short, validated screening questionnaire used worldwide by psychologists and doctors. Its seven questions ask how often, over the last two weeks, you have been bothered by symptoms such as nervousness, uncontrollable worry, trouble relaxing or feeling on edge. It is a quick way to get a sense of your anxiety level, but it is a screening tool, not a diagnosis.
How to read your anxiety test score
Each answer scores from 0 to 3, for a total between 0 and 21. As an orientation:
- 0–4: minimal anxiety.
- 5–9: mild anxiety.
- 10–14: moderate anxiety — worth paying attention to.
- 15–21: severe anxiety — professional support is recommended.
These ranges are only a guide. What matters most is how much your anxiety affects your daily life, not the number alone.
When should you seek help?
Consider talking to a professional if anxiety lasts most days for several weeks, keeps you from sleeping or working, leads you to avoid situations, or comes with panic attacks. Anxiety responds very well to therapy: approaches such as cognitive-behavioural therapy and, when there is trauma behind it, EMDR, help most people feel noticeably better.
Frequently asked questions
Is this anxiety test free?
Yes. It is completely free and anonymous. Your answers are not stored unless you choose to receive the result by email.
Is the result a diagnosis?
No. It is an orientative screening based on the GAD-7. Only a qualified professional can make a diagnosis after a full assessment.
Can I take the anxiety test in English with a psychologist in Madrid?
Yes. Alejandro Cabeza is an English-speaking psychologist in Madrid (licence M-37719) offering therapy for anxiety in person and online.