The Beck Anxiety Inventory - scale / Online Free Psychological Tests is a scale used to measure symptoms of anxiety in individuals. In addition to assessing physical symptoms such as trembling, sweating, and heart palpitations, it also evaluates the level of worry, restlessness, tension, and fear. The test results provide information on the severity of anxiety-related symptoms if present. However, it cannot be used for diagnosis or treatment. If you require diagnosis or treatment, please consult the appropriate professionals. Below, you will find a list of symptoms that people may experience when feeling anxious or worried. Please read each item carefully. Then, indicate how much each symptom has bothered you over the past week, including today.
What is the Beck Anxiety Inventory?
The Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) was developed by Aaron T. Beck and colleagues in 1988 to measure the severity of anxiety symptoms while distinguishing them from depressive symptoms. It is one of the most widely used self-report anxiety measures in clinical practice and research.
How is it scored?
The inventory has 21 items describing common anxiety symptoms such as numbness or tingling, feeling hot, trembling, fear of the worst happening and a racing heart. You rate how much each symptom has bothered you during the past week from 0 (not at all) to 3 (severely). The total score ranges from 0 to 63; the Score Ranges table on this page shows how totals are commonly interpreted (minimal, mild, moderate, severe).
What should I do with my result?
A higher score means that anxiety symptoms have been more intense during the past week. If your score is in the moderate or severe range, or if anxiety interferes with your work, relationships or sleep, consider talking to a mental health professional. Cognitive behavioural therapy is an evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders.
Limitations
The BAI is a screening tool and does not provide a diagnosis. Several physical conditions (for example thyroid problems or heart rhythm disorders) can cause similar symptoms, so an assessment by a clinician is recommended when symptoms persist.