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Anxiety · GAD-7 resultGAD-7 score 10–14: moderate anxiety — what it means
The Wired One
A GAD-7 total of 10–14 lands in the moderate band. This is the zone where doctors would want to take a closer look. It isn't a diagnosis — only a professional can give you that — but it's a clear signal that talking to a GP or therapist is worthwhile.
What this result means
On the GAD-7, a score of 10 to 14 is the point where the scale crosses its most important threshold: a total of 10 or higher is the standard cut-off for a likely anxiety concern that merits a professional assessment. Over the last two weeks, the core symptoms — uncontrollable worry, being on edge, trouble relaxing, restlessness, that sense something bad is coming — have been present much of the time. In archetype terms this is the Wired One: “the worry has its own engine now — I can't just talk myself down.”
The key shift at this level is that the anxiety has stopped tracking real events and started running on its own. That's exhausting, and it's not a character flaw or a willpower problem. Anxiety is one of the most common and most treatable things a GP sees — reaching out is the strong move, not the weak one.
Where this score sits
The GAD-7 runs from 0 to 21 and sorts into four bands. Your score falls in the moderate anxiety range (10–14). This band sits at the upper end, where a professional assessment is worthwhile. Tap any other band to read its full breakdown.
- 0–4Minimal anxiety
- 5–9Mild anxiety
- 10–14Moderate anxiety — you are here
- 15–21Severe anxiety
What to do next
The single most useful step is to book a GP or therapist and say it plainly: “I think my anxiety might be more than stress.” You don't need to have it all figured out first — that's their job. In the meantime, keep protecting your sleep, keep some movement in the week, and lean on your partner rather than white-knuckling it in silence.
Because anxiety and depression overlap so often, it's worth taking the depression check too, and seeing your full checkup so you and your GP have the fuller picture. For new dads specifically, Postpartum Support International has help aimed at partners, not just mothers.
When to get help
Yes — this is a level where getting help is genuinely worth it. A GP or therapist can talk through what's driving the anxiety and what would help; moderate anxiety responds well to treatment, whether that's therapy, lifestyle changes, or both. A self-check like this is a starting point, not a substitute for care.
FAQ
What does a GAD-7 score of 10–14 mean?
It's the moderate-anxiety band, and it crosses the scale's key threshold: a total of 10 or higher is the standard signal that a professional assessment is worthwhile. It's not a diagnosis — only a clinician can make one.
Is a moderate GAD-7 score serious?
It's significant enough to act on. The worry has likely stopped tracking real events and started running on its own. It's not dangerous in itself, and it's very treatable — but it's a clear reason to talk to a GP or therapist.
What should I do next?
Book a GP or therapist and say plainly that your anxiety might be more than stress. Consider the depression check too, since the two overlap, and keep protecting your sleep in the meantime.
Regular is built by a small team of parents who needed it themselves — a companion for the first year after a baby that helps new dads rebuild closeness with their partner through small, science-backed moments, not big talks.
Meet RegularScored with the GAD-7 (Spitzer et al.; free to use via Pfizer). A screen, not a diagnosis. A total of 10 or higher is the standard threshold to seek a professional assessment. When you take the check, your answers stay on your device.