The Adult ADHD Self-Report Screening Scale for DSM-5 (ASRS-5) is the updated, ultra-brief screening tool developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Workgroup on Adult ADHD. It is specifically designed to align with the diagnostic criteria outlined in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition).

Why the ASRS-5?

Older versions of ADHD screening tools were often criticized for being too long or focused heavily on childhood symptoms. The ASRS-5 was refined to reflect how ADHD manifests in adulthood—focusing less on “running and climbing” and more on executive dysfunction, such as:

• Difficulties with task completion and organization.
• Inability to sit still in meetings.
• Problems with concentration when being spoken to directly.
• Tendency to finish others’ sentences or struggle with waiting one’s turn.

Scoring and Interpretation

The ASRS-5 consists of only six items. Research has shown that these six questions are highly predictive of ADHD in adults.

• The Scale: Each question is rated on a 5-point scale from “Never” to “Very Often.”
• The Threshold: A total score of 14 or higher indicates a positive screen.
• Clinical Value: The ASRS-5 has a high sensitivity and specificity. While it cannot provide a formal diagnosis, it is an excellent “first-step” tool to determine if a patient requires a more intensive clinical interview or neuropsychological testing.