Different Tools Used to Screen for ADHD
The Why
Welcome to "The Things We Didn't Get To," where we dive into the topics that might not be fully explored during a typical appointment time. You might have noticed that based on the clinician doing the evaluation, a different series of screeners may have been utilized to reach a diagnosis, especially when it’s an adult being evaluated. While there are many valid, evidence-based approaches to diagnosing ADHD during childhood and adulthood, here are some of the common tools and screeners you might encounter if you or your child is evaluated.
The Info
Often times, the screeners and tools used in childhood and adolescence to diagnose ADHD has simply been updated rather than reinvented. This is because ADHD previously was largely thought to be a diagnosis of childhood and there the approach to diagnosis has been around longer and is more established. Diagnosing ADHD in adults is a much newer concept and therefore has not been as well studied, and approaches vary widely. While screeners are helpful, they are not diagnostic alone. This is not a comprehensive list and you may have encountered different screeners in your care.
Vanderbilt & Connors: The Vanderbilt is likely one of the most common screeners used in childhood and adolescence to assess ADHD. It can include a parent form and a teacher form to gather collateral from the academic setting. Primary Care and Psychiatry often utilize this screener, especially with children to gather information when considering a diagnosis. It is a free, accessible form which helps disseminate its use more widely. The Connors Questionnaire is very similar to the Vanderbilt and includes a parent and teacher questionnaire.
The BRIEF (A) “Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function”: The BRIEF has both a child and adolescent version as well as an adult version. This more specifically screens for executive function challenges. Three main indexes within the BRIEF assess behavioral regulation, emotional regulation, and cognitive regulation. This is a useful screener for ADHD but Autism as well. It is not widely accessible nor disseminated as it does cost money and requires an educational requirement to administer. This is often seen in a mental health assessment or neuropsychiatric evaluation.
ASRS “Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale”: The ASRS is a widely disseminated and utilized tool to screen for ADHD in adults. It is a fairly concise screener when compared to a tool like the BRIEF but is also more accessible in a variety of settings including Primary Care. It is free which makes it a good starting point to even self-screen and continue the conversation with a mental health clinician.
DIVA (2.0) “Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults”: The DIVA 2.0 is accessible online and is often used during evaluations by the mental health providers as a part of the interview process. The PDF online is also something you can fill out at home and bring to an appointment. It provides real-world examples of how ADHD might present in day to day life. DIVA (5.0) is not free and not as widely disseminated but is targeted towards children and adolescents.
Discussion
Screening tools are an important part of assessing ADHD. They help to quickly assess if further investigation is warranted. Screeners when used at home can help you start the conversation with your provider and indicate a need to pursue more help. The use of screeners in the clinical setting as a part of an evaluation can help to guide a more comprehensive evaluation but cannot be used alone to diagnose. It is important for your provider to understand your experiences and real-world examples to inform the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment considerations. Their use in practice, both in clinical settings and at home, varies due to cost, access, and dissemination.
ADHD Quick Takeaways
There are many screeners used to assist in the diagnosis of ADHD
Many of the screeners used for children and adolescents are free and widely accessible online to anyone
Some screeners like the BRIEF and DIVA 5.0 are newer and less accesible at this time due to cost.
The DIVA 2.0 is free and can be a useful screener at home and in a clinical setting
Screeners cannot diagnose ADHD. They should be alongside clinician assessment to ensure your day-to-day experience is better understood.
Disclaimer
This blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with a licensed medical or mental health professional before making any changes to your care, medications, or treatment plan. Every individual’s mental health journey is unique, and personalized guidance is essential.
Resources
DIVA 2.0
https://www.advancedassessments.co.uk/resources/ADHD-Screening-Test-Adult.pdf
Vanderbilt-Teacher and Parent
ASRS
https://add.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/adhd-questionnaire-ASRS111.pdf
