About the ASRS
The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) is a brief questionnaire developed by the World Health Organization to help identify symptoms that may be consistent with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is not a diagnostic tool on its own, but it can highlight patterns that deserve further evaluation by a qualified professional. The six questions above form "Part A" of the ASRS, which research has shown is particularly effective for initial screening.
Scoring Method
Each question is scored from 0 to 4 based on how often you experience the described symptom, from "Never" to "Very Often." Four or more responses scored in the "Often" or "Very Often" range generally suggest that ADHD may be present. Mathematically we can represent each question response as a variable . The total score is . Because some questions carry more weight than others, mental health professionals typically focus on how many items fall in the top two frequency categories rather than the exact sum.
Using Your Results
If your score indicates frequent struggles in several areas, consider discussing the results with a clinician experienced in ADHD assessment. They may perform additional interviews or gather reports from family or teachers to make a formal diagnosis. Even if you do not meet the threshold, the exercise can reveal patterns of inattention or hyperactivity that affect daily life. Many people benefit from organizational strategies, behavioral therapy, or, in some cases, medication to manage symptoms.
Limitations
This calculator does not replace a comprehensive clinical evaluation. Stress, anxiety, and other medical conditions can mimic ADHD symptoms. Only a professional can determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Still, self-assessments like the ASRS offer a starting point for self-awareness and conversation. Repeating the questionnaire over time may help you monitor how symptoms change with lifestyle adjustments, therapy, or medication.
Conclusion
The ASRS is a quick tool to gauge whether your experiences align with common symptoms of adult ADHD. It empowers you to reflect on patterns of inattention and hyperactivity that might otherwise seem like personality quirks. Use the results to inform discussions with a healthcare provider and to explore strategies for improving focus and managing impulsivity.
Beyond the Screening
If you are uncertain about your next steps, consider keeping a daily journal that tracks when symptoms interfere with work or relationships. Having a written record can help professionals see patterns that a one-time questionnaire might miss. You may also find online forums or local support groups that share coping techniques and encourage consistent follow-up.
Reading up on ADHD from reputable sources—such as the latest clinical guidelines or books written by experts—can provide deeper insight into treatment options. Many people discover that small adjustments, like structured routines or mindfulness exercises, make a noticeable difference. Use the ASRS results as a springboard for ongoing learning and collaboration with healthcare providers.
Interpreting Subscales
Questions 1 through 4 primarily address inattentive symptoms, while questions 5 and 6 reflect hyperactivity and impulsivity. Some adults score high in only one area. For instance, a person may have difficulty sustaining attention yet seldom feel restless. Recognizing which cluster drives your challenges can guide targeted interventions such as organizational coaching or movement breaks.
Clinicians often compare your individual item responses to normative data. Marking “Very Often” on multiple inattentive items is more predictive of ADHD than isolated high scores. The table below summarizes how the six questions map to symptom domains.
| Question | Symptom Domain |
|---|---|
| 1–4 | Inattention |
| 5–6 | Hyperactivity/Impulsivity |
Strategies for Improvement
Regardless of your score, experimenting with practical strategies can enhance day-to-day functioning. Common techniques include breaking tasks into smaller steps, setting timers to maintain focus, and minimizing digital distractions. Physical activity and adequate sleep improve executive function and may lessen symptom severity. Many adults also benefit from cognitive-behavioral therapy, which teaches skills for planning, prioritizing, and emotional regulation.
Workplaces increasingly offer accommodations such as flexible schedules or quiet workspaces. Sharing your challenges with supervisors or colleagues—when comfortable—can lead to supportive arrangements that boost productivity. Students may qualify for extended test time or note-taking assistance. These adjustments do not require a formal diagnosis but often follow from understanding one’s symptom profile.
The Professional Diagnosis Process
If you seek a formal assessment, expect a multi-step evaluation. Clinicians typically gather developmental history, conduct interviews, and administer standardized rating scales to you and sometimes close contacts. They may rule out or identify co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression, which can influence treatment plans. A comprehensive approach ensures that any recommended medication or therapy addresses your specific needs.
After diagnosis, follow-up visits help track progress and side effects. Medication adjustments, therapy goals, and lifestyle changes are revisited periodically. Keeping notes about your daily functioning can make these appointments more productive by highlighting improvements or persistent obstacles.
Co‑Occurring Conditions
ADHD often overlaps with other neurodevelopmental or mood disorders. Anxiety, depression, and learning disabilities may mask or mimic symptoms. Discussing sleep habits, substance use, and mental health history with a clinician provides context that a short questionnaire cannot capture. Awareness of co‑existing issues leads to more comprehensive support.
Some adults discover that addressing underlying sleep apnea or thyroid problems alleviates concentration difficulties. Others find that managing anxiety reduces fidgeting and restlessness. By considering the broader health picture, you can avoid attributing every challenge solely to ADHD.
Self‑Monitoring and Follow‑Up
Track your score periodically—perhaps every few months—to observe trends. Improvements may coincide with therapy, medication, or lifestyle adjustments like exercise. Conversely, rising scores might signal increased stress or the need to revisit coping strategies. Keeping a simple spreadsheet or app log can make these patterns visible and facilitate discussions with healthcare providers.
In addition to numerical scores, note qualitative observations: Which environments trigger distractions? Are certain times of day more challenging? Such insights empower personalized adjustments, from rearranging your workspace to scheduling demanding tasks when attention is sharpest.