ADHD Self-Assessment For Adults Free
Self-assessment can be a simple and quick method to determine whether you suffer from symptoms of adult ADHD. However, the only way to obtain an actual diagnosis is through consultation and evaluation with a professional.
ADHD in adults is characterized by a tendency to lose things often such as keys or phones or to forget the items you used. The symptoms persist in a variety of settings and cannot be explained with other causes.
Self-assessment Tools
Many people suffering from ADHD do not seek treatment or diagnosis because of the stigma associated with the disorder. Some people might have a distorted view of the disorder and believe it's a personality flaw or a tool for marketing that pharmaceutical companies use to sell their products. However, years of research have proven that adult ADHD is real and that untreated symptoms can be devastating to the quality of life of a person.
Fortunately, there are several reliable self-assessment tools to assist a person to determine whether or not they might benefit from an ADHD evaluation. These tools are available online and are generally free to use. A mental health professional must conduct a thorough clinical assessment to arrive at a precise and complete diagnosis of ADHD.
ADHD Screening Test
Many people believe they suffer from symptoms of ADHD but they do not seek help from a doctor because they believe their difficulties are normal aspects of life or the result of poor parenting. Some people are hesitant to seek a medical diagnosis due to the fear that their symptoms could affect their relationships, work or sense of identity. Untreated ADHD is a growing issue for a large number of people.
The World Health Organization*, in collaboration with the Workgroup on Adult ADHD, has created a screening tool to help people with ADHD to give people an initial indication of whether they may need further evaluation from a clinical doctor. This screening questionnaire is for adults 18 years and older, and it assesses the most commonly observed symptoms of ADHD.
The ASRS was designed to be completed independently by the individual. This is perfect for those who are hesitant to disclose their medical conditions to a provider or prefer to complete self-assessments. It takes between three and 10 minutes to complete and is easy to navigate.
Other self-assessment tools online include ratings scales and behavior assessments. These tools are often used in clinical practice and form an integral part of a complete evaluation for ADHD. These tools can be utilized to collect data from the patient, significant other teachers, family members and friends to assist with the diagnosis of ADHD. These tools can be used to track the changes in symptoms in time.
Women's ADHD Self Assessment Inventory of Symptoms
Some online tools are specifically designed to address the symptoms and challenges of females who suffer from adult ADHD. The Women's ADHD Symptom Inventory was developed by two psychiatrists who have extensive experience working with this population. It focuses on the issues of childhood and the patterns that may impact ADHD among females. It also analyzes adult issues, including issues with relationships, work-related challenges and life maintenance struggles.
click for info are designed to be used in conjunction with an extensive evaluation conducted by a trained mental healthcare professional. A trained professional can evaluate the history of an individual, their symptoms and functioning using a variety of tools, including standardized diagnostic ratings and self-report questionnaires. The clinician will then be able to suggest the most appropriate treatment plan in light of the results of these assessments as well as other clinical evaluations.