Do you think you might have ADHD?
Studies indicate that ADHD symptoms endure into the adult years and can influence interpersonal connections, professional outcomes, and overall well-being of individuals. Due to misconceptions, individuals affected often miss out on suitable interventions, potentially hindering their ability to achieve optimal personal growth. One contributing factor is the inherent challenge in accurately diagnosing ADHD, especially in the case of adults. The survey below is based on a widely used tool for screening for ADHD which you can use to understand your symptoms better. It is recommended that you take your responses to your psychologist for further discussion.
The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) is a widely used tool for assessing ADHD symptoms in adults. The ASRS was developed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and is commonly used as part of the diagnostic process. Below is a survey based on the ASRS that you can use to speak to your GP or psychologist about your symptoms. Please note that this survey is not a substitute for a professional diagnosis, and individuals suspected of having ADHD should consult with a qualified healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation.
ADHD Symptom Survey
Instructions: For each statement, please select the option that best describes your experience over the past 6 months.
How often do you have trouble wrapping up the final details of a project, once the challenging parts have been done?
Never = 0 Rarely = 1 Sometimes = 2 Often = 3 Very Often = 4
2. How often do you have difficulty getting things in order when you have to do a task that requires organisation?
Never = 0 Rarely = 1 Sometimes = 2 Often = 3 Very Often = 4
3. How often do you have problems remembering appointments or obligations?
Never = 0 Rarely = 1 Sometimes = 2 Often = 3 Very Often = 4
4. When you have a task that requires a lot of thought, how often do you avoid or delay getting started?
Never = 0 Rarely = 1 Sometimes = 2 Often = 3 Very Often = 4
5. How often do you fidget or squirm with your hands or feet when you have to sit down for a long time?
Never = 0 Rarely = 1 Sometimes = 2 Often = 3 Very Often = 4
6. How often do you feel overly active and compelled to do things, like you were driven by a motor?
Never = 0 Rarely = 1 Sometimes = 2 Often = 3 Very Often = 4
If you or someone you know scores high on this survey, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis. A high score on this survey merely suggests that further investigation into your symptoms may be necessary - it does not mean that you have ADHD but it may indicate that you are experiencing some distress and/or impairment from similar symptoms. Likewise, a low score does not confirm that you do not have ADHD. Many other conditions can look like ADHD so it is recommended that you book in with a qualified psychologist to discuss your symptoms further.