How to Check for Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are primarily diagnosed through a clinical interview conducted by a mental health professional. During this session, the clinician evaluates the individual's mental state and symptoms to identify signs of anxiety. This face-to-face interaction is crucial for understanding the patient's emotional and psychological condition.

Common Screening Tools for Anxiety

In addition to clinical interviews, standardized screening scales are often used to support the diagnostic process. These tools help assess the severity and frequency of anxiety symptoms. Patients are asked to answer a series of questions related to their emotional experiences, which can provide valuable insights into their mental health status.

Popular Self-Assessment Scales

One of the most widely used self-assessment tools is the SAS (Self-Rating Anxiety Scale), which is easily accessible online and comes with a clear scoring system. Another effective tool is the GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7) questionnaire, consisting of only seven questions. Each item measures different aspects of anxiety, allowing individuals to evaluate their anxiety levels based on their responses.

Professional Diagnosis is Essential

While these scales can offer a preliminary understanding of anxiety symptoms, they are not a substitute for professional diagnosis. A qualified psychiatrist or psychologist must make the final assessment based on clinical criteria and a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's history and current condition.