GAD-7 (ASSESSING GAD)

Question 1

What is the GAD-7?

Answer 1

A 7 item screening tool used to assess the severity of GAD. It consists of 7 questions each rated on a 4 point scale.

Question 2

Give 2 examples of items on the GAD-7?

Answer 2

• Feeling nervous, anxious or on edge.
• Trouble relaxing

Question 3

How are items on the GAD rated?

Answer 3

• Items are rated on a 4 point scale (0-3)
• (0= not at all)
• (1= several days)
• (2= more than half the days)
• (3= nearly everyday)

Question 4

How is the GAD scored?

Answer 4

• Total scores ranges from 0-21.
• (0-5= mild anxiety)
• (15-21= severe anxiety)

Question 5

What are some strengths of the GAD?

Answer 5

• Quick and easy adminstration
• Consists of only 7 questions making it quick and simple for patients to complete and clinicians to score.
• (fast identification= early intervention)

Question 6

What are some weaknesses of the GAD?

Answer 6

• SELF-REPORT BIAS
• The GAD relies on self-reported data, specifically patients self-awareness, and honesty.
• Some individuals may exaggerate (malingeering) or minimise their symptoms (avoid stigmatising label) leading to inaccurate scoring

Question 7

What does the GAD-7 help pracictioners do?

Answer 7

• Often used in a primary care setting in order to refer the patient to a psychiatrist or counsellor
• Diagnose and monitor anxiety symptoms

Question 8

What is a mnemonic for GAD-7?

Answer 8

7 FAST
7- Items/ questions
F- Four point scale
A-Anxiety focused (screens for GAD)
S- Scoring range (0-21)
T- Threshold of 10 (possible clinical anxiety)