At Rula, we use something called Measurement-Informed Care (MIC). This means your therapist uses short surveys to better understand your mental health over time.
- These surveys help track your progress.
- They give you and your therapist a shared way to talk about symptoms.
- They make sure you’re getting the right support at the right time.
One of the surveys we use is called the GAD-7. It focuses on worry and anxiety - something many people, even those without a clinical anxiety disorder, experience. Seeing your results can help start important conversations in therapy.
What is the GAD survey?
- GAD stands for Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
- The survey measures how often you feel nervous, worried, or tense.
- It’s a tool to help you and your therapist understand how anxiety may be showing up in your life.
What do my results mean?
Your score shows the level of anxiety symptoms you may be experiencing:
| Score Range | What it May Mean |
| 0–4 | Minimal anxiety |
| 5–9 | Mild anxiety |
| 10–14 | Moderate anxiety |
| 15–21 | Severe anxiety |
Important: Your score is not a diagnosis. Only a licensed therapist or doctor can make a diagnosis. Think of this survey as a starting point for further conversation; your results give you and your therapist valuable insight so you can take charge of your path forward.
Why is this helpful?
Your results can:
- Show patterns in your anxiety.
- Help you and your therapist talk about what feels hardest right now.
- Guide the care plan and coping tools your therapist may suggest.
Your scores may change from week to week in response to what is going on in your life- sometimes higher, sometimes lower. These changes help you and your therapist understand what’s working, notice patterns, and adjust your care plan so it fits your needs.
What should I do while I wait to talk with my therapist?
Here are a few things that may help right away:
- Write down any worries or questions you want to bring to your next session.
- Practice calming skills you may have learned in therapy, like deep breathing, stretching, or taking a short walk.
- Remind yourself: Anxiety is common, and support is available. You are not alone.
When should I reach out sooner?
If your anxiety feels too hard to manage - for example, if it’s stopping you from sleeping, eating, working, or caring for yourself - let your therapist know. This can also be a good time to use your safety plan!
If you ever have thoughts of hurting yourself or feel unsafe, call 911 right away or dial 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Your GAD score is just one part of your story. The real power comes from the conversations you’ll have with your therapist. Together, you can create a plan that fits your needs and strengths. By completing this survey, you’ve already shown courage and commitment to your well-being.
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