Question 1

What is the recommended cutoff score for the GAD-2?

Accepted Answer

A cutoff of 3 or greater is considered a positive screen for GAD, with 86% sensitivity and 83% specificity in the original validation study (Kroenke et al., 2007, Ann Intern Med). A subsequent meta-analysis found pooled sensitivity of 76% and specificity of 81%.

Question 2

When should the GAD-2 be used instead of the GAD-7?

Accepted Answer

The GAD-2 is best as a first-stage ultra-brief screening tool where time constraints are significant, such as high-volume clinics or routine population screening. A positive screen should be followed up with the full GAD-7 or a clinical diagnostic interview to confirm diagnosis and assess severity.

Question 3

Does the GAD-2 screen for other anxiety disorders?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It shows reasonable sensitivity for panic disorder (76%), social anxiety disorder (70%), and PTSD (59%), with specificity of 81-83%. However, sensitivity is highest for GAD, and positive screens should prompt further assessment with disorder-specific instruments.

Question 4

Is the GAD-2 part of other composite screening instruments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The GAD-2 forms the anxiety subscale of the PHQ-4, which combines the GAD-2 with the PHQ-2 into an ultra-brief 4-item combined anxiety and depression screening tool validated by Kroenke et al. (2009).

Question 5

What does my GAD-2 score mean?

Accepted Answer

We have a detailed scoring guide that explains how to interpret your GAD-2 results, including severity ranges and recommended clinical actions. Read our full scoring guide.

GAD-2: Ultra-Brief Anxiety Screening Tool

Take the GAD-2 assessment. Ultra-brief 2-item anxiety screening for rapid identification of individuals needing further evaluation. Evidence-based anxiety detection.

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