Official adhd test

Adult ADHD Test | ADDA

Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a relatively common, often unrecognized condition. It affects 4.4% of U.S. adults, but most adults with ADHD live with the symptoms and suffer the often-devastating effects of ADHD in their lives without identifying the source of their struggles. Instead, their difficulties are attributed to their own shortcomings.

Once diagnosed, many adults are happy to learn that they do not have a character flaw as aptly described in the title of one popular book on ADHD, “You Mean I’m Not Lazy, Stupid or Crazy?!” (a classic book for adults with ADHD).

Yes, Adult ADHD Exists

Many adults who suffer from untreated ADHD avoid diagnosis or treatment due to the negative stigma associated with ADHD.

Many people dismiss ADHD as little more than laziness targeted as a marketing opportunity by pharmaceutical companies. However, many years of scientific research confirms adult ADHD does indeed exist, and that ADHD diminishes adults’ quality of life.

Regardless of the stigma surrounding ADHD, knowing about your adult ADHD is preferable to struggling unawares. With an accurate diagnosis, many treatment options and coping strategies become available. ADHD is not a “one size fits all” disorder and many factors must be considered before a definitive diagnosis is made and an appropriate treatment is found.

It’s Better to Know

An ADHD diagnosis is not a death sentence, nor does it guarantee a lifetime of taking pills. Medication is not always effective, and there are many adults with ADHD who do not want medication as part of their treatment plan. However, without knowing you have adult ADHD, there’s certainly nothing anyone can do to help.

If you do have ADHD, you can rely on ADDA, the world’s only organization dedicated exclusively to helping adults with ADHD.

ADDA provides accurate and science-based education on treatment alternatives such as CBT, ADHD coaching, and medication, and as scientific research has proven the benefits of additional treatments, ADDA has also expanded its education efforts to include strategies such as mindfulness practice, exercise, diet and therapy.

The World Health Organization Adult Self-Report Scale (ASRS) Screener

The World Health Organization has prepared a self-screening ADHD questionnaire^* you can use to determine if you might have adult ADHD. The Adult Self-Report Scale (ASRS) Screener^* will help you recognize the signs and symptoms of adult ADHD. The ASRS is comprised of 6 questions that are ranked on a scale of 0 to 4. If you have at least 4 of these 6 symptoms significantly, you may have ADHD and should seek out a formal diagnosis.

When you complete this Adult ADHD questionnaire, if the results seem to indicate you might have ADHD (that is, four or more of your answers in Part A are located in the grey boxes), then bring a copy of the questionnaire with you when you seek diagnosis to help with the diagnostic process.

A Good Starting Point

This screening test is a symptoms checklist for adult ADHD and not a diagnostic test. A full assessment and potential diagnosis of ADHD is not accomplished using an online test or during a quick doctor’s appointment.

A thorough evaluation usually takes more than one visit, and must be done by a professional who is trained in ADHD*. Other conditions can sometimes resemble ADHD, so it is important to work with a professional who is able to rule out these other conditions and make the appropriate diagnosis. Many psychologists, psychiatrists, therapists and some general practice physicians are trained to diagnose adult ADHD.

A thorough assessment requires a complete physical and psychiatric medical history as well as screening to rule out any possible physical disorders. All assessments should include an extensive interview with you and often with your significant other (other people are often more aware of your behaviors and struggles than you are), and the application of various symptom-rating scales. For accuracy, it is common to use more than one scale to confirm results.

*Note: The professionals qualified to diagnose ADHD, especially ADHD in adults, are defined differently by the governing bodies of mental and/or medical health professionals on a state-by-state and country-by-country level. The list of approved professionals to perform ADHD diagnoses therefore varies with each jurisdiction. The process of diagnosing ADHD, particularly in adults, requires extensive knowledge, skills and training, not only to identify ADHD properly, but to separate comorbid conditions and correctly distinguish and diagnose other conditions which may mimic ADHD. Check with your local health care governing body for a definitive list of care providers deemed qualified to diagnose ADHD.

ADHD: The Facts

We've got answers to your ADHD questions.

What is ADHD?
ADHD in Adults
ADHD Signs & Symptoms
ADHD Diagnosis

ADHD Causes
Types of ADHD
ADHD Treatment
ADHD Facts & Statistics

What is ADHD?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. It is one of the most common disorders of this kind diagnosed in children. ADHD often carries over into adulthood.

ADHD is a highly genetic, brain-based syndrome that has to do with the regulation of a particular set of brain functions and related behaviors.

These brain operations are collectively referred to as “executive functioning skills” and include important functions such as attention, concentration, memory, motivation and effort, learning from mistakes, impulsivity, hyperactivity, organization, and social skills. There are various contributing factors that play a role in these challenges including chemical and structural differences in the brain as well as genetics.

ADHD in Adults

ADHD can persist into adulthood. In some cases, adults with ADHD have never been diagnosed. The symptoms of ADHD in adulthood can cause difficulties in relationships, at home, and at work.

Around 2.8% of adults worldwide have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Other research estimates that around 6.7% of adults globally (or over 360 million) are affected by ADHD when cases without a childhood diagnosis are included in the percentage.

Click here to learn more about ADHD in Adults

ADHD Signs & Symptoms

The main signs and symptoms of ADHD in adults are:

Difficulty focusing
Misplacing items
Always running late
Risky behaviors
Lack of listening
Inability to prioritize
Relationship troubles
Nervous energy
Memory issues
Easily angered

This list is not comprehensive, but it does cover the most common signs and symptoms of ADHD in adults.

Click here to learn more about ADHD Signs & Symptoms

ADHD Diagnosis

A diagnosis of ADHD is complex. It’s essential to work with a professional familiar with ADHD. ADHD can be diagnosed via extensive interview procedures, behavior and symptom rating skills, third-party observations, and obtaining a comprehensive history.

Seek out a psychiatrist, psychologist, or psychotherapist specializing in ADHD and related challenges. While a primary care physician can typically identify signs of ADHD and give a preliminary diagnosis, they may not have the extensive ADHD-specific experience necessary to accurately diagnose and treat ADHD.

Not sure if you have ADHD? Take our online ADHD test to learn more.

ADHD Causes

Currently, there is no known cause or risk factor associated with ADHD. Scientists are, however, trying to learn more so they can discover ways to reduce and manage the symptoms of ADHD.

Some research has shown a strong link between genetic factors and ADHD. Scientists are also looking into other possible causes and risk factors for ADHD, including:

Brain injuries
Low birth weight
Being born prematurely
Use of alcohol or tobacco during pregnancy
Exposure to environmental risk factors, such as lead during pregnancy

Types of ADHD

ADHD can present in three different ways. The type of ADHD you’re diagnosed with will depend on which symptoms are the most dominant.

Inattentive ADHD: Individuals with this type of ADHD find it difficult to plan or complete a task, follow directions or discussions, or follow instructions. Individuals can also get easily distracted or forget the specifics of daily routines.
Hyperactive-Impulsive: Individuals with this type of ADHD tend to talk a lot, often interrupting others, unable to wait their turn, or speaking at inappropriate times. People with hyperactive-impulsive ADHD will also fidget, grab things from people, and have difficulty sitting still for long periods, such as while in class or watching a movie. People with this type of ADHD also feel restless and can act impulsively. As a result, accidents and injuries in people with this type of ADHD are more common.
Combined: Individuals with combined ADHD demonstrate symptoms from both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive ADHD equally.

Note – It’s important to know that since symptoms can change over time, their presentation may change too.

ADHD Treatment

Research has shown that the most effective treatment for ADHD is a combination of medication and therapy. Medication manages brain-based functions and symptoms, while therapy addresses daily thoughts, behaviors, and coping strategies.

Group therapy programs and peer support groups are beneficial as well. There is no replacement for being around other people who “get it.” ADHD coaching has been found to be effective in guiding those with ADHD.

ADHD coaching has been found to be effective in guiding those with ADHD towards identifying and meeting goals, maintaining a positive approach to change, and improving productivity while providing a source of accountability. Many seek out coaching when their goals involve improving organizational skills, time management, goal completion, and productivity. If you want to learn more, check out our article on how to find an ADHD coach.

Medication is often used to help normalize brain activity and must be carefully prescribed and monitored by a physician, preferably a psychiatrist.

ADHD Facts & Statistics

According to epidemiological data, approximately 5% of adults have ADHD. That represents over 11,000,000 people in the US. It occurs in both men and women and, in the majority of cases, persists throughout the lifespan.
ADHD usually persists throughout a person’s lifetime. It is NOT limited to children. Since ADHD is a neuro-behavioral condition, there is no cure and the majority do not outgrow it. Approximately two-thirds or more of children with ADHD continue to have symptoms and challenges in adulthood that require treatment.

ADHD occurs in both men and women. While initially research was focused on studying hyperactive, school-aged boys, we now know that women also have ADHD. Boys and men are more likely to be referred for ADHD testing and treatment, receive accommodations, and participate in research studies, which makes it hard to identify the ratio of men to women with ADHD. Some researchers have suggested that ADHD more prevalent in men, but we are learning that this is likely not the case. ADHD in women are consistently under-diagnosed under-treated compared to men, especially those who do not demonstrate hyperactivity and behavior problems.

ADHD symptom test

The ADHD test includes many different symptoms that in one way or another indicate the presence of this mental disorder. However, the severity of the disease and its symptoms can vary greatly.

This test incorporates the results of previous studies to ensure the validity and reliability of the results for identifying symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Do you have symptoms of ADHD? For each following statement, indicate how much you agree with it.

The ADHD test (IDR-ADHDST) is owned by IDRlabs. It builds on the work of Dr. Lenard Adler and colleagues who created the ADHD Questionnaire (ASRS). This test is not affiliated with any particular researcher or organization in the field of psychopathology.

The ADHD symptom test is based on material that has been published in the following sources: Kessler RC, Adler L, Ames M, Demler O, Faraone S, Hiripi E, Howes MJ, Jin R, Secnik K, Spencer T, Ustun TB , Walters EE. The World Health Organization Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS): a short screening scale for use in the general population. Psychol Med. 2005 Feb;35(2):245-56. doi:10.1017/s0033291704002892. PMID: 15841682; Adler LA, Spencer T, Faraone SV, Kessler RC, Howes MJ, Biederman J, Secnik K. Validity of pilot Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) to Rate Adult ADHD symptoms. Ann Clin Psychiatry. 2006 Jul-Sep;18(3):145-8. doi: 10.1080/10401230600801077. PMID: 16923651; Adler, L., Faraone, S., Sarocco, P. , Atkins, N., Khachatryan, A. (2018). Establishing US norms for the adult ADHD self-report scale and characterizing symptom burden among adults with self-reported ADHD. The International Journal of Clinical Practice.

The work of Dr. Adler and colleagues looks at the main symptoms of ADHD. This work also describes certain diagnostic criteria that are intended for clinical use by trained mental health professionals. This test provides information for educational purposes only. IDRlabs and this test are in no way affiliated with the above researchers, organizations or institutions.

The ADHD symptom test is based on known research on the condition and other psychiatric disorders. However, all free online tests like this one are only introductory materials that will not be able to determine your inherent qualities with absolute accuracy and reliability. Therefore, our test provides information for educational purposes only. Detailed information about your mental state can only be provided by a certified specialist.

As the authors of this free online ADHD symptom ratio test, we have made every effort to ensure that this test is reliable and valid through numerous validations and statistical data controls. However, free online tests like this provide information "as is" and should not be construed as providing professional or certified advice of any kind. For more information about our online tests, please see our Terms of Service.

ADD(H) test for adults

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Adult ADHD Test

ADD(H) test for adolescents and adults 17 years of age and older, in accordance with the methodology of the American DSM-V guide.

Number of questions: 18 .

For more information, see the article from the Notes.

...

To answer "Yes", the symptom must be:

- Stable during the last 6 months .

- Was expressed in measure not corresponding to the level of development .

- Had a negative impact on academic performance and/or professional activities .

...

The test is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose any disease.

Consult a doctor for diagnosis.

...

one

Often makes nervous movements with hands or feet, or fidgets and wriggles while sitting in a chair.

Yes

Often interrupts or annoys others.

For example, breaks into conversation, games or activities without invitation; can use other people's things without asking; for teenagers or adults - they can interfere with someone else's work or continue someone else's work themselves.

Yes

Often has difficulty waiting in line.

For example, in the shop or at the game.

Yes

four

Often blurts out an answer before the question has been fully asked.

For example, completes sentences when others are speaking; cannot wait for their turn to join the conversation.

Yes

Often too talkative.

Yes

It is often in constant motion and behaves as if a motor was attached to it.

For example, absolutely unable or unable to stay comfortably in one place in restaurants or meetings; perhaps people around him consider him a restless person or a person with whom it is difficult to deal with.

Yes

Often has difficulty playing or spending leisure time quietly.

Yes

eight

Often runs back and forth without restraint or climbs in situations where this is unacceptable.

Note: Teenagers and adults may not be running, jumping or climbing but may be restless and out of sorts.

Yes

Often leaves his seat in class or in other situations where the person is expected to be seated.

For example, leaving one's seat in a classroom, in an office or other place of work, or in other situations where one is expected to be seated.

Yes

ten

Often fails to pay due attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, and other activities.

For example, does not notice or skips details, the work is not done accurately.

Yes

eleven

Often forgetful in daily activities.

For example, forgetfulness in housework, while doing errands; for older teenagers and adults - they forget to return calls, pay bills, come to a meeting or appointment (to a doctor, for example).

Yes

Often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli. For older teenagers and adults, this includes thoughts that are inappropriate for the time / place.

Yes

Often loses things needed for lessons or classes.

For example, notebooks, textbooks, pencils, books, tools, keys, paper forms, glasses, mobile phones.

Yes

fourteen

Often avoids, dislikes, or reluctantly takes on things that require sustained mental effort.

For example, schoolwork or school homework, for older teens and adults - preparing reports, filling out forms, studying long texts.

Yes

fifteen

Often has difficulty organizing lessons and classes.

For example, trouble moving from one task in a chain to another, difficulty keeping materials and personal belongings in order, sloppy, unorganized work, poor time management, failing to complete work on time.

Yes

Often does not follow instructions to the end and does not complete class work, chores, or duties in the workplace.

For example, starts work, but quickly loses focus and easily wanders off topic.

Yes

Often it seems that he does not listen to the speech addressed to him.

For example, his mind wanders somewhere else, even if there is no obvious distraction.

Yes

eighteen

Often has difficulty maintaining attention when performing tasks or during games.

Learn more