Krista Varsakis Krista Varsakis

How to Screen Yourself for Adult ADHD

Please note that I am a Registered Social Worker operating in BC + Ontario, Canada. This information is primarily intended for audiences in these areas.

I do not diagnose ADHD or prescribe ADHD medication. Please contact your Primary Care Provider to formally assess you for ADHD.

One of the most frequently asked questions I am asked is how to get assessed for ADHD.

While this process varies depending on a number of factors, the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1 ) Symptom Checklist is a simple and accessible first step.

Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1) Symptom Checklist

This is a Self-Report Scale based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) of Mental Disorders. ADHD Diagnostic Criteria is based on the DSM, which medical professionals use to evaluate and diagnose mental health conditions.

The ASRS Symptom Checklist is an instrument consisting of the 18 DSM-IV TR criteria. Six of the 18 questions were found to be the most predictive of symptoms consistent with ADHD.

While ASRS does not formally diagnose ADHD, it is an effective screening tool.

If you have a Primary Care Provider, I recommend bringing this assessment to your next appointment to talk about more in-depth.

A note about language

The use of language like symptom is a reflection of the how the medical system treats ADHD.

There is increased awareness on how language like this is stigmatizing. The use of the word symptom implies there is something defective or wrong with certain types of people. This speaks to a much larger issue around ableism and the social construction of (dis)ability. Many ADHDers prefer the term characteristic rather than symptom for this reason.

I am writing this article using clinical language to reflect the diagnostic process of ADHD.

Why you might want to seek a formal ADHD diagnosis

The ASRS is a helpful indicator of possible ADHD. For some, completing this instrument may offer some validation and they may wish to stop there.

There are also reasons many might wish to pursue a formal diagnosis:

  • Access to ADHD Medications from a qualified Medical Professional

  • School or workplace accommodations

  • Apply for Disability Tax Credit, a non-refundable Federal Tax Credit

  • Apply for other provincial or Federal disability programs & benefits

As each person’s situation is unique, I encourage you to do your research. A great place to start is with CADDAC, Canada’s Centre for ADHD Awareness.

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