The ASRS-5 is a concise screening tool used to identify symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults. It is a shorter version of the original ASRS, developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) in collaboration with the Workgroup on Adult ADHD.
Purpose
The ASRS-5 is intended to help individuals and healthcare professionals quickly determine the likelihood of ADHD in adults. It is not a diagnostic tool but rather a preliminary screening to identify those who may need a more comprehensive evaluation.
Structure
The ASRS-5 consists of six questions derived from the DSM-5 criteria for ADHD. These questions assess the frequency of symptoms related to inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity over the past six months.
Questions and Scoring
Each question is rated on a five-point scale:
- 0 = Never
- 1 = Rarely
- 2 = Sometimes
- 3 = Often
- 4 = Very Often
What it Measures:
- The ASRS-5 focuses on symptoms experienced in the past six months.
- It assesses two core ADHD categories through six questions:
- Inattention: Difficulty focusing, concentrating, and staying on task.
- Hyperactivity-Impulsivity: Restlessness, fidgeting, and blurting out responses.
Test Format:
- The ASRS-5 consists of six short questions.
- Each question uses a five-point Likert scale, ranging from “Never” (0) to “Very Often” (4).
Administration:
- While the test may be available online, it’s primarily used by healthcare professionals.
- They might administer it during an initial assessment or to support a referral for a more comprehensive ADHD evaluation.
Important Considerations:
- Screening Tool, Not Diagnosis: A high score suggests potential ADHD but doesn’t confirm it. Conversely, a low score doesn’t rule it out entirely.
- Follow-Up: If your score suggests ADHD, discuss it with your doctor or a mental health professional for a comprehensive evaluation.
- Accuracy: Relies on honest self-reporting.
- External Factors: Medications or mental health conditions can influence answers. Disclose relevant health information to your doctor.
- Target Population: Intended for adults 18 years and older.
