Understanding ADHD
Learn about ADHD symptoms, get information, and take a self-assessment test
What is ADHD?
Attention Difficulties
Trouble focusing on tasks, easily distracted by external stimuli, difficulty sustaining attention in activities
Hyperactivity
Feeling restless, difficulty sitting still, excessive talking, always "on the go"
Impulsivity
Acting without thinking, interrupting others, difficulty waiting turns, making hasty decisions
Common ADHD Symptoms
Inattentive Type
- Difficulty paying attention to details
- Trouble staying focused on tasks
- Appears not to listen when spoken to
- Fails to follow through on instructions
- Difficulty organizing tasks and activities
- Avoids tasks requiring sustained mental effort
- Often loses things
- Easily distracted
- Forgetful in daily activities
Hyperactive-Impulsive Type
- Fidgets with hands or feet
- Leaves seat when expected to remain seated
- Feels restless
- Difficulty engaging in quiet activities
- Often "on the go"
- Talks excessively
- Blurts out answers before questions completed
- Difficulty waiting turn
- Interrupts or intrudes on others
Combined/Complex Type
- Exhibits symptoms from both types
- Most common presentation of ADHD
- Fluctuating attention and hyperactivity
- Executive function challenges
- Emotional dysregulation
- Time management difficulties
- Working memory problems
- Inconsistent performance
- Social interaction challenges
Common ADHD Impairments
🧒 Childhood Impairments
Academic Challenges
- Difficulty completing homework
- Poor organization of school materials
- Inconsistent academic performance
- Trouble following multi-step instructions
Social Difficulties
- Trouble making and keeping friends
- Difficulty with turn-taking in games
- Interrupting conversations
- Emotional outbursts or meltdowns
Behavioral Issues
- Difficulty sitting still in class
- Frequent daydreaming
- Losing or forgetting belongings
- Procrastination on tasks
👨💼 Adult Impairments
Work & Career
- Chronic lateness or absenteeism
- Difficulty meeting deadlines
- Problems with time management
- Trouble with detailed paperwork
Relationships
- Difficulty maintaining relationships
- Forgetting important dates/events
- Impulsive decisions affecting others
- Emotional regulation challenges
Daily Life
- Household organization problems
- Financial management difficulties
- Procrastination on important tasks
- Sleep and routine disruptions
ASRS Self-Assessment
About the ASRS Test
The Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1) is a widely used screening tool developed by the World Health Organization. It consists of 18 questions based on DSM-IV criteria for ADHD.
This assessment can help identify symptoms that may be consistent with ADHD, but it's not a diagnostic tool. Always consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Ready to take the test?
The test takes about 5-10 minutes and will provide you with a score based on your responses.
Start ASRS TestAdditional Resources
🩺 Professional Help
Consult with a healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or psychologist for proper diagnosis and treatment options.
🎓 Expert Resources
Learn from leading ADHD experts: Dr. Russell Barkley, Dr. Ned Hallowell, and Dr. K (HealthyGamer) for evidence-based insights.
🤝 Support Groups
Connect with local or online ADHD support groups to share experiences and coping strategies.