psychiatry

Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS v1.1)

18-item self-report screening tool for adult ADHD developed with WHO. Part A (items 1–6) is the validated screener — a positive screen requires ≥4 items shaded in the dark zone. Full 18-item scale assesses full symptom picture.

How often do you have trouble wrapping up the final details of a project once the challenging parts have been done?*

How often do you have difficulty getting things in order when you have to do a task that requires organisation?*

How often do you have problems remembering appointments or obligations?*

When you have a task that requires a lot of thought, how often do you avoid or delay getting started?*

How often do you fidget or squirm with your hands or feet when you have to sit down for a long time?*

How often do you feel overly active and compelled to do things, as if driven by a motor?*

Score interpretation

Screen Negative 0–3

ASRS Part A score <4 — ADHD symptoms below screening threshold

→ ADHD unlikely based on screener; if clinical concern persists, complete all 18 items and consider formal neuropsychological assessment

Screen Positive 4–6

ASRS Part A score ≥4 — positive screen for adult ADHD

→ Full diagnostic evaluation: complete 18-item ASRS; clinical interview (childhood history, functional impairment); exclude mood/anxiety disorders; neuropsychological testing; consider psychiatry referral; NICE guidelines recommend CBT + pharmacotherapy (methylphenidate/lisdexamfetamine) for confirmed ADHD

Interpretation bands for the ASRS ADHD. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.

References

Kessler RC et al. The World Health Organization Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS): a short screening scale for use in the general population. Psychol Med. 2005;35(2):245–256.

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Calculators

Drugs

Pathways

Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.

Score interpretation

References

Related