Question 1

What is the GAD-7?

Accepted Answer

The GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale) is a validated self-report questionnaire for screening and measuring the severity of generalized anxiety disorder. It was developed by Spitzer et al. in 2006 and has been validated in multiple studies with ~89% sensitivity and specificity.

Question 2

What is the difference between anxiety and an anxiety disorder?

Accepted Answer

Normal anxiety is a proportionate response to real stressors (exam, job interview) and resolves when the stress passes. An anxiety disorder involves persistent, excessive worry that interferes with daily life for 6+ months, often without a clear external trigger. GAD is the most common anxiety disorder.

Question 3

What are the symptoms of generalized anxiety?

Accepted Answer

GAD symptoms include excessive, hard-to-control worry about multiple topics, restlessness, fatigue, concentration difficulties, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances. Physical symptoms like headaches, sweating, nausea, and heart palpitations are also common.

Question 4

Can anxiety be treated without medication?

Accepted Answer

Yes. CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) is the gold standard for anxiety and is often more effective long-term than medication alone. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), exercise, sleep improvement, and reducing caffeine and alcohol also significantly reduce anxiety.

Question 5

How is anxiety different from a panic attack?

Accepted Answer

Anxiety involves chronic, persistent worry. Panic attacks are acute episodes of intense fear with physical symptoms (racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, numbness) that peak within minutes. Panic disorder involves recurrent panic attacks with fear of future attacks.

Question 6

When should I see a doctor for anxiety?

Accepted Answer

See a doctor if anxiety is interfering with work, relationships, or daily activities; if you are using alcohol or substances to cope; if you have physical symptoms like heart palpitations or chest pain; or if you feel you cannot control your worrying despite your efforts.

Anxiety Self-Assessment (GAD-7)

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