Adult ADHD Test (Screening): What It Measures and How to Read It

This in-depth screening test assesses the presence and intensity of ADHD symptoms in adults. It explores four fundamental dimensions: inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity and executive functioning. Based on current diagnostic criteria and on neuropsychology research, this questionnaire offers a detailed overview of your attentional and behavioural profile. The results will help you better understand your everyday difficulties and determine whether an in-depth clinical assessment would be relevant. By the way, Psy Lounge lets you talk this through out loud with an AI trained in cognitive behavioral therapy.

In the article that follows, I explore adult ADHD and attention difficulties. If you recognise yourself in this theme, I designed an adult ADHD test that helps you take stock of the signs of an ADHD profile in you. It comes with a guide to extend your reflection beyond the results. I also wrote a book on this subject, The Practical CBT Guide, if you would like to go further.

Take the test: Adult ADHD (Screening) → — Start here: this screening assesses inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity and executive functions in a few minutes.

What the Test Measures

• The capacity to sustain attention, to focus on details and to follow instructions without becoming distracted.
• The level of physical restlessness, difficulty staying still and a constant need for movement.
• The tendency to act without thinking, to interrupt others and to make hasty decisions.
• The capacity to plan, organise, manage time and regulate one's behaviour in order to reach goals.

How to Read Your Score

The result reads as an intensity, not as a diagnosis:

• Few symptoms: Your results suggest a low presence of ADHD symptoms. Your attentional and behavioural functioning appears within the norm.
• Moderate symptoms: You show moderate symptoms that may suggest ADHD. Some aspects of your daily life are probably affected.
• High symptoms: Your results indicate a strong presence of ADHD symptoms significantly affecting your daily functioning.
• Very high symptoms: Your results show a very substantial presence of ADHD symptoms. Your daily life is probably considerably affected.

What Your Full Report Contains

The detailed PDF report includes:

• Introduction: This report presents the results of your adult ADHD screening assessment. It explores four fundamental dimensions: inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity and executive functioning. The results are provided for information only and do not constitute a diagnosis.
• Global Score: The report presents your overall score and guidance for interpreting it.
• Dimension-by-Dimension Analysis: The detailed analysis of each dimension helps you understand your specific profile and identify the areas where difficulties are most marked.
• Recommendations: A validated multimodal approach: (1) Medication — methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Quasym, Medikinet), atomoxetine (Strattera), lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse) in France. Initial prescription by a psychiatrist/neurologist, renewal by the GP. Efficacy of 70-80% on attention and impulsivity. (2) CBT adapted to adult ADHD — the Safren programme ("Mastering Your Adult ADHD"), with modules on organisation, planning, managing distractors, and cognitive restructuring around self-esteem. (3) Everyday compensatory strategies — systematic externalisation (Notion, Todoist, Bullet Journal), fixed routines (morning/evening), structured Pomodoro, body doubling, low-distraction environments. (4) Strict biological hygiene — sleep of 7-9h (ADHD = hypersensitivity to sleep deprivation), daily aerobic physical activity (Ratey, "Spark": a natural stimulant effect on catecholamines), omega-3, mindfulness meditation (Zylowska's MAPs programme, validated for ADHD). ADHD is neither an excuse nor a fatality — it is a different neurological mode that calls for adapted strategies. ADHD coaching is possible alongside therapy.
• Resources: Adult ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder recognised by the DSM-5 (American Psychiatric Association 2013) and the ICD-11. Reference scales: ASRS-v1.1 (WHO, 18 items), DIVA-5 (semi-structured interview), Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scale (CAARS). Major authors: Russell Barkley ("Taking Charge of Adult ADHD"), Edward Hallowell & John Ratey ("Driven to Distraction", "ADHD 2.0"), Lidia Zylowska ("The Mindfulness Prescription for Adult ADHD"), Sari Solden (ADHD in women). Mechanisms: dysfunction of the prefrontal cortex and of the mesocortical dopaminergic system. Frequent comorbidities (60-80% of cases): anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, ASD, addictive disorders, OCD. Prevalence: 2.5-4.4% of adults (Kessler 2006). Diagnosis in France: neuropsychiatrist or neuropsychologist, with a long care pathway (6-18 months). Associations: HyperSupers TDAH France, TDAH-Pour-Tous, ADHD UK (English-speaking).

The first 5 questions are free; the full, personalised report (your precise score, your dimension profile, your recommendations) is paid.

When to Take This Test

• You recognise yourself in ADHD, adulthood, attention and want to see things clearly.
• You want a structured reading rather than a vague impression.
• You are looking for an objective starting point before talking to a professional if needed.

Take the test: Adult ADHD (Screening) → — 60 questions, anonymous, PDF report.

FAQ

How long does the test take? 60 questions, about 20 min. The test has 60 questions. Does the test provide a diagnosis? No. It measures an intensity and provides reference points; only a professional can make a diagnosis. Are my answers confidential? Yes: the test is 100% anonymous and the report is delivered directly to you.

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👉 Start the Adult ADHD (Screening) test → — 60 questions, immediate result, PDF report, 100% anonymous.