Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale Research Articles

Gambling disorder and its associated factors in university students

Abstract Background Gambling disorder (GD) is defined as persistent and uncontrollable gambling behaviour that has negative effects on an individual’s life. This can lead to financial problems, poor academic performance, and health problems. GD has been associated with psychological disorders like depression, anxiety, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). We aimed to examine the gambling disorder and its associated factors in university students. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study among students at a university in Eskisehir (Türkiye) in 2024. A stratified random sample design was used. Five faculties were randomly selected. A total of 1,201 students were included according to the stratum weight of the faculties. A questionnaire including sociodemographic characteristics, South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS), and Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) was applied. Data were analysed through descriptive statistical analyses and multivariate logistic regression models. Results The mean age was 21.5±2.8 years, and 46.8% were male. While 48.7% of the students stated that they had gambled at least once, 2.2% had a gambling disorder. The three most common types of gambling played by students were stock market (28.2%), bet on sports (22.0%), and scratch cards (18.2%). In multivariate analysis, being male (Odds ratio-OR:6.5, 95%CI:1.4-29.8), having lost years during education (OR:2.7, 1.1-6.8), having relatives with gambling problems (OR:8.0, 1.8-36.2), investing greater amounts of money in gambling (OR:3.7, 1.0-13.0), and having a high probability of ADHD (OR:4.3, 1.4-12.8) were found to be predictors for GD. Conclusions Although about half of the students had engaged in gambling activities, only a small proportion showed signs of GD. We can conclude that being male, having lost years in education, having relatives with gambling problems, investing larger amounts of money in gambling, and having a higher probability of ADHD are predictors of GD among students. Key messages • Implementing educational campaigns at universities to raise awareness of the potential risks and consequences associated with GD could be beneficial. • It may be helpful if mental health services at the university were equipped to consider mental health conditions such as ADHD, that contribute to GD.

An investigation of the Bernstein’s strengths Scale: factorial validity and network analysis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity symptoms, mental health, and the strengths of the healthy adult self

BackgroundBernstein’s heuristic model of personal strengths describes 16 positive attributes of the healthy adult self, grouped into four higher-order factors: self-directedness (identity, self-reflection, self-confidence, self-assertion, imagination/creativity), self-regulation (emotional balance, resilience, self-control, self-care, reality testing), connection (empathy, compassion, humour, responsibility), and transcendence (gratitude and wisdom). The study aimed to explore the factorial validity of Bernstein’s Strengths Scale developed for the assessment of these constructs. Furthermore, we explored the association of strengths with attention-deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) symptoms and mental health in a nonclinical sample using a network approach.MethodsFive hundred and twenty-eight adults filled out an online questionnaire, including Bernstein’s Strengths Scale (BSS), the Mental Health Continuum – Short Form (MHC-SF), and the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS).ResultsThough our data showed an acceptable fit to the 16-factor model, the Self-control subscale and item 28 of the Compassion subscale were excluded because of reliability issues. The final model with 15 factors and 44 items showed excellent fit, χ2(797) = 1130.149, p < .001, RMSEA = 0.028, 90% CI [0.024, 0.032], SRMS = 0.049, CFI = 0.993, TLI = 0.991. Principal component analysis revealed three instead of four second-order factors. In the network model, Self-confidence and Wisdom emerged as the most influential nodes. ADHD symptoms were negatively connected to Responsibility, Self-care, Identity, Emotional balance, Self-confidence, and mental health, while they had positive edges with Humor, Self-reflection, and Imagination/creativity. Mental health was positively related to several strengths, with the strongest association being between mental health and Gratitude.ConclusionThe BSS has acceptable factorial validity and is a reliable tool for assessing the personal strengths of the healthy adult self. ADHD symptoms in adults may be associated with deficits in personal strengths, but protective factors could also be identified. Addressing personal strengths in psychosocial interventions for ADHD in adults may improve patients’ emotional well-being and everyday functioning.

How evidence-based is the "hashtag ADHD test" (#adhdtest). A cross-sectional content analysis of TikTok videos on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) screening.

TikTok is being increasingly used as an easily accessible source of information on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This study aimed to find the quality of information on ADHD screening or self-test in TikTok videos with the hashtag #adhdtest and the engagement of these videos with their viewers. The content of the top 50 TikTok videos with the "hashtag #ADHDtest" was analyzed cross-sectionally and categorized as "useful" or "misleading" after comparison of its content with the "Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale" (ASRS-v1.1). The videos were categorized as "useful" if its contents had at least 4 out of the 6 questions on the ASRS-v1.1 screener. Its level of engagement was quantified by measuring the number of times the video was liked, commented on, or added to favorites. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. Out of the 50 included #adhdtest videos, 92% (n = 46) were misleading. Furthermore, useful videos had minimal engagement, with only 4% of the total likes, 1% of the total comments, and 7% of the total favorites. There is misleading information related to adult ADHD screening and testing on TikTok. There is a need to address this misinformation.

A Psychometric Evaluation of the Revised Version of the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale in Chinese Adolescents.

Adolescent-specific ADHD self-report screening measures can greatly increase the likelihood of correct diagnosis and timely treatment of ADHD in adolescents. This study provides preliminary evidence for evaluating the reliability and validity of the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale-Revised (ASRS-R) in a school-based sample of Chinese adolescents. The ASRS-R and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) were administered to 867 adolescents aged 12 to 16 years (Mage = 13.08 years). Construct validity was assessed using correlation analysis of the ASRS-R with the SDQ. Moreover, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), internal consistency, retest reliability, and measurement invariance of the scales were examined by gender. CFA showed a two-dimensional factor structure of the ASRS-R, and the model fitted the data well (χ2/df = 4.370, RMSEA = 0.062, TLI = 0.932, CFI = 0.940, GFI = 0.927, AGFI = 0.907, and SRMR = 0.038). The ASRS-R scale was invariant across gender and had satisfactory internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = .934) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = .874). The construct validity, as calculated using the SDQ, was also acceptable. The ASRS-R can be a psychometrically reliable self-report instrument and provide preliminary support as a simple tool for identifying ADHD symptoms in Chinese adolescents. The findings provide evidence for extending the application of the ASRS, previously limited to adults, to the adolescent populations.

B - 67 Executive Functions as a Mediator between ADHD Symptoms and Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms in Emerging Adults

Abstract Objective Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with comorbid disorders such as anxiety and depression in emerging adults (Prevatt et al., 2012; Mochrie et al., 2020). However, there is limited research examining this association. This study explored the potential mediating role of executive functions in the relationship between ADHD symptoms and anxiety and depressive symptoms, respectively. Method A sample of 842 college students (mean age of 18.96 years) completed the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1; Kessler et al., 2005), the Executive Function Index (EFI; Spinella, 2005), and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale – 21 (DASS-21; Lovibond &amp; Lovibond, 1995). The sample was selected from a Psychology Research Program (PRP) pool of a southern university and consisted of 630 women (74.8%), 197 men (23.4%), 13 non-binary (1.5%), and 2 preferred not to answer (0.2%). Results PROCESS 4.2 (Hayes, 2022) model 4 was used with 5000 bootstrap resamples to examine indirect effects. The confidence interval for the indirect effect of ADHD symptoms through executive function was significant for depressive symptoms, B = 0.85, SE = 0.20, 95% CI [0.48, 1.26], as well as anxiety symptoms, B = 1.36, SE = 0.23, 95% CI [0.94, 1.85]. Conclusion ADHD symptoms in college students were associated with lower levels of depression and anxiety when students reported having stronger executive function skills. Given this association, future research could seek to clarify the role of executive functions in protecting individuals with ADHD from impairments associated with anxiety or depression, and whether treatment that builds executive functioning skills is of value in clinical populations.

Suicide risk with ASD traits or ADHD traits in non-clinical young adults

The impact of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) traits on suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs) remains inadequately explored. Hence, the present study aims to delve deeper into these intricate issues, contributing to a better understanding of these complex challenges among Chinese youth. The data of 90,882 participants was collected from 63 Chinese universities and colleges in Jilin, China. We aim to explore the risks of STBs on ASD, ADHD, and co-occurrence of ASD + ADHD by using the Autism Spectrum Quotient-10 items (AQ-10) and Adult ADHD Self Report Scale (ASRS). Propensity score matching (PSM) was implemented to balance demographical variables across the four groups. Binary logistic regression was then conducted to further analyze and compare suicide risk across the four groups, also accounting for sex differences. Suicide risks were significantly higher in the ADHD (OR = 1.24, p < 0.001) and ASD + ADHD(OR = 1.49, p < 0.001) traits group. However, there was no significant difference in suicide risk between the ASD traits group (OR = 1.00, p = 1.00) and the control group. The risk of suicide was significantly higher for females than for males across all four groups (p < 0.001). These results indicate the importance of screening for ASD + ADHD traits in young adults, especially females due to its higher risk of STBs. Further studies are warranted to delve deeper into this issue, emphasizing the necessity of formal diagnostic tests and directing focused attention toward addressing these complexities.

Examination of Excessive Mind-Wandering Following Attention-Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder Treatment in Adults.

Although mind-wandering (MW) is a part of attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the impact of psychostimulants on excessive MW remains unclear. We aimed to elucidate how psychostimulants impact the MW of adult ADHD patients post treatment. This cross-sectional cohort study consisted of 54 randomly selected ADHD patients who applied to our psychiatry outpatient clinic and 40 healthy controls. The ADHD patients were administered methylphenidate or atomoxetine. A Semi-Structured Sociodemographic and Clinical Data Form, the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS), and the Mind Excessively Wandering Scale (MEWS) were applied. Routine psychiatric assessments in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd months of pharmacological treatment were carried out by a psychiatrist. The pre-treatment MEWS score of the ADHD patients was 26.09 ± 1.92, which significantly decreased to 12.78 ± 2.54 post-treatment (F = 715.250, p < .001). A statistically significant difference was identified between the mean pre-treatment ASRS total score (44.07 ± 10.09) and post-treatment score (27.34 ± 11.22; F = 50.364, p < .001). A lifetime history of alcohol/substance use was positively associated with the MEWS score. ADHD pharmacotherapy led to significant reductions in MW. Recognizing the interaction between MW and ADHD could help in the design of more specific and comprehensive interventions.

The Association between Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder and Autistic Traits with Psychotic-like Experiences in Sample of Youths Who Were Referred to a Psychiatric Outpatient Service.

The aim of this study is to identify autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) traits in adolescents who experience psychotic-like experiences (PLEs), often ignored in clinical practice but widely prevalent in the general population. A total of 57 adolescents and young adults (aged between 16 and 24 years old) were recruited consecutively in the outpatient services. A total of 37 were females (64.9%), 18 were males (31.6%), and two participants (3.5%) were non-binary or gender non-conforming, with a mean age at referral of 18.26 ± 2.06. To investigate these symptoms, three sets of standardized questionnaires were used, as follows: the Autism Spectrum Quotient-short form (AQ-10), the Community Assessment of Psychic Experiences (CAPE-42), and the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS). We found significant associations between the ASRS and AQ-10 total scores and all CAPE scales. The model which explained the highest variance was CAPE Score's Total Frequency score (p < 0.001). Our findings underline the importance of investigating the presence of subthreshold ASD and ADHD symptoms in clinical populations, particularly in the period of adolescence and young adulthood, to promptly identify the presence of PLEs and, thus, prevent the onset of a frank psychotic disorder, particularly in the presence of a comorbid psychopathological condition, leading to better diagnosis and treatment for individuals with two or more of these conditions.

Deliberate self-harm in adolescents screening positive for attention-deficit / hyperactivity disorder: a population-based study

BackgroundAdolescents with attention-deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have an increased risk of self-harm. The risk of self-harm among adolescents who display an elevated level of ADHD symptoms, but without a formal diagnosis, is not well-studied and understood.ObjectiveTo investigate the relationship between self-reported symptoms of ADHD and self-harm in a population-based sample of adolescents.MethodsAdolescents in the population-based youth@hordaland study were invited to complete the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) and the Short Mood and Feelings Questionnaire (SMFQ). They were asked whether they ever deliberately have taken an overdose or tried to harm themselves on purpose, once or multiple times, defined according to the code used in the Child and Adolescent Self-harm in Europe (CASE) Study. Adolescents reporting severe problems on ≥ four of six selected items on the ASRS-v 1.1 screener were defined as ADHD-screen positive (ADHD-SC+), and the remaining sample as ADHD-screen negative (ADHD-SC-). SMFQ score ≥ 12 was used to define a high level of depressive symptoms.ResultsA total of 9692 adolescents (mean age 17.4 years, 53.1% females) participated in the study, of which 2390 (24.7%) screened positive on the ASRS. ADHD-SC+ adolescents engaged in self-harm more often than the ADHD-SC- group (14.6% vs. 5.4%, OR = 3.02, 95%CI [2.57–3.24]). This remained significant after adjustment for demographic variables, SMFQ score ≥ 12, symptoms of conduct disorder and familial history of self-harm and suicide attempts (OR = 1.58, 95%CI [1.31–1.89]). They were also more likely to report an overdose as their method of self-harm (OR = 1.52, 95%CI [1.05–2.23]). Within the ADHD-SC+ group female sex, high levels of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms, SMFQ score ≥ 12, symptoms indicating conduct disorder and familial history of self-harm and suicide attempts increased the likelihood of engaging in deliberate self-harm.ConclusionAdolescents who screened positive for ADHD had increased risk of engaging in self-harm. Clinicians should consider the increased risk of such engagement in adolescents who present with high level of ADHD symptoms, even in the absence of a clinical ADHD diagnosis.

Associations Between ADHD Symptoms and Rejection Sensitivity in College Students: Exploring a Path Model With Indicators of Mental Well-Being

The purpose of this study was to assess the association between attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms and rejection sensitivity in college students, and whether it is mediated or moderated by elements of mental well-being. Using a cross-sectional design, the study examined 304 Hungarian college students who responded online to a set of questionnaires that included the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale, The Mental Health Test, and the Rejection Sensitivity Questionnaire. Path analysis indicated that well-being, creative/executive proficiency, self-regulation, and resilience partially mediated the relationship between ADHD symptoms and rejection sensitivity, while savoring moderated this link. The model explained up to 50% of the total variance in rejection sensitivity scores. Findings suggest that university students with ADHD symptoms may particularly benefit from acquiring savoring skills to enhance their mental well-being and lower rejection to sensitivity. As such, the results carry significant implications for counseling psychologists, educators, and mental health professionals working in the higher education sector.

Association of maladaptive daydreaming with behavioral addiction

Maladaptive daydreaming (MD) is a proposed syndrome characterized by extensive, immersive daydreaming. Case reports have suggested an association of MD with behavioral addictions such as excessive internet use, online gaming, and compulsive sexual behaviors. The aim of this study was to investigate maladaptive daydreaming and behavioral addiction symptoms among young adults. An online questionnaire was administered to 293 volunteer medical students. Participants were assessed by applying the 16-item Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale (MDS-16), Addictive Behavior Burden Form, and Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Report Scale (ASRS). Participants were divided into two groups: probable MD (MDers) and non-MDers, according to MDS-16. Age and gender did not significantly differ between the MD and non-MD groups. MDers had more severe symptoms associated with gaming addiction (p = 0.03; U = 4941), problematic social media use (p = 0.01; U = 4680), food addiction (p = 0.01; U = 4965), sex/pornography addiction (p = 0.01; U = 4787), and compulsive buying (p = 0.03; U = 4874) than non-MDers. Among the behavioral addiction dimensions assessed in the study, only gaming addiction was a significant statistical predictor of MD. These findings highlight a significant association between MD and behavioral addictions, particularly gaming addiction, in young adults. Furthermore, the findings of this study suggest a unique relationship between gaming addiction and MD.

Inhibitory control ability moderates the relationship between internet addiction and inattention in ADHD in a community sample

Internet addiction (IA) has been related to psychiatric problems such as ADHD. However, it is not known exactly how this relationship operates, although most research shows that both people with ADHD and IA have inhibitory control (IC) deficit. This study aimed to investigate whether IC mediates or moderates the relationship. 76 non-clinically diagnosed participants were recruited. They performed the Stroop task and completed the Young's Internet Addiction Test, Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale Symptom Checklist and a Demographic Information Form. Consistent with previous research, the results show that while total ADHD/inattention was correlated with IA, hyperactivity/impulsivity was not. In contrast with some previous research, Stroop task performance (measured via reaction times and pupil dilation) did not differ between low and high IA groups, nor low and high inattention groups. Despite neither inattention nor IA between associated with IC impairments, the relationship between inattention and IA was shown to be moderated by Stroop task performance in that the relationship was present mainly in those who experience high and moderate IC deficits. This finding could have implications for both ADHD and IA at higher levels of severity and could help guide prevention and treatment options in those most vulnerable to IA.

Influence of maternal attention-deficit hyperactive disorder on child dental neglect - An analytical cross-sectional study.

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that is characterized by symptoms such as inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. The influence of mothers with ADHD and their attitude towards their wards' oral health has not been explored in the Indian scenario. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of ADHD in mother-child dyads in western Tamil Nadu and the mothers' dental neglect toward their children. The prevalence of ADHD in mothers and children was assessed using the Adult ADHD Self-report Scale screener and ADHD Rating Scale, respectively. The Child Dental Neglect Scale (CDNS) was used to assess dental neglect in children. The responses were recorded on a Likert scale and statistical analyses were done. The prevalence of ADHD in mothers and children was 10.65% and 10.57%, respectively. The impulsivity and hyperactivity type of ADHD was commonly seen in both the mothers and their children. Mothers without ADHD felt that their children maintained their oral health well. Mothers with ADHD deferred the needed dental treatment for their children. Mothers with ADHD have four times more risk of having children with ADHD. Maternal ADHD influences their child's oral health. Child dental neglect was more prevalent among mothers with ADHD.

Using polygenic scores in combination with symptom rating scales to identify attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

BackgroundThe inclusion of biomarkers could improve diagnostic accuracy of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). One potential biomarker is the ADHD polygenic score (PGS), a measure of genetic liability for ADHD. This study aimed to investigate if the ADHD PGS can provide additional information alongside ADHD rating scales and examination of family history of ADHD to distinguish between ADHD cases and controls.MethodsPolygenic scores were calculated for 576 adults with ADHD and 530 ethnically matched controls. ADHD PGS was used alongside scores from the Wender-Utah Rating Scale (WURS) and the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) as predictors of ADHD diagnosis in a set of nested logistic regression models. These models were compared by likelihood ratio (LR) tests, Akaike information criterion corrected for small samples (AICc), and Lee R². These analyses were repeated with family history of ADHD as a covariate in all models.ResultsThe ADHD PGS increased the variance explained of the ASRS by 0.58% points (pp) (R2ASRS = 61.11%, R2ASRS + PGS=61.69%), the WURS by 0.61pp (R2WURS = 77.33%, R2WURS + PGS= 77.94%), of ASRS and WURS together by 0.57pp (R2ASRS + WURS=80.84%, R2ASRS + WURS+PGS=81.40%), and of self-reported family history by 1.40pp (R2family = 28.06%, R2family + PGS=29.46%). These increases were statistically significant, as measured by LR tests and AICc.ConclusionWe found that the ADHD PGS contributed additional information to common diagnostic aids. However, the increase in variance explained was small, suggesting that the ADHD PGS is currently not a clinically useful diagnostic aid. Future studies should examine the utility of ADHD PGS in ADHD prediction alongside non-genetic risk factors, and the diagnostic utility of the ADHD PGS should be evaluated as more genetic data is accumulated and computational tools are further refined.

Core items selection and psychometric properties of the adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder self-report scale-chinese short version (ASRS-CSV)

ObjectiveThis study aimed to develop and validate the Chinese Short Version of the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-CSV), addressing the need for culturally appropriate diagnostic tools for Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in the Chinese adult population. MethodsUtilizing a combination of intergroup difference analysis, factor analysis, and network analysis, we identified core ADHD symptoms pertinent to the Chinese cultural context. The study involved two samples: a vocational and technical school sample (N=1144) and an internet sample (N=1654), comprising adults aged 16–25 years. Reliability, validity, and diagnostic efficacy of the ASRS-CSV were assessed through psychometric testing. ResultsThe ASRS-CSV demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha > 0.9) and robust convergent validity (AVE > 0.7). The scale's diagnostic cutoff points were optimized, revealing high sensitivity and specificity for ADHD screening. Cross-cultural analysis highlighted differences in core ADHD symptoms between Chinese and Western populations, underscoring the scale's cultural sensitivity. ConclusionThe ASRS-CSV is a reliable, valid, and efficient tool for screening ADHD in Chinese adults, reflecting the socio-cultural nuances of ADHD symptomatology. Its development marks a significant advancement in the field of psychiatry, offering a tailored approach for ADHD assessment in China and contributing to the global discourse on cross-cultural psychiatric diagnosis.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Risk Factor for Premature Discontinuation of Inpatient Opioid Withdrawal Treatment.

Background: Substance use disorders present a tremendous challenge within contemporary healthcare systems. Specifically, in the domain of opioid use disorders (OUDs), several foundational elements are crucial for the efficacious management of afflicted individuals. Regrettably, the premature discontinuation of inpatient opioid withdrawal treatment is a prevalent phenomenon. This study aims to elucidate the prevalence of the premature termination of inpatient opioid withdrawal treatment among patients with comorbid ADHD. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive assessment of all participants currently undergoing inpatient opioid withdrawal treatment. Our assessment protocol included the administration of the ADHD Self-Report Scale (ADHD-SR) and the Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS-k). Additionally, participants who met the thresholds on one or both questionnaires underwent further evaluation using the Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in Adults (DIVA-2.0). Results: The prevalence of individuals diagnosed with ADHD within the studied cohort was determined to be 29.3%. Among the subset of participants identified as ADHD-positive, a notable 54.5% prematurely ceased therapy. In contrast, among those identified as ADHD-negative, the premature discontinuation rate was substantially lower at 28.3%. Conclusions: In summary, the impact of ADHD as a comorbid condition on the efficacy of inpatient opioid withdrawal treatment has been underscored. By identifying comorbid ADHD early in the treatment process, tailored therapeutic approaches may help to maximize the effectiveness of interventions and may improve patient outcomes. This underscores the importance of proactive screening for ADHD as a psychiatric comorbidity in optimizing the management of individuals undergoing inpatient opioid withdrawal treatment.

Prevalence, Correlates, and Comorbidities Among Young Adults Who Screened Positive for ADHD in South Korea During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Objective: This study examined the prevalence, associated factors, and psychiatric comorbidities of adult ADHD during the COVID-19 pandemic by analyzing nationally representative data. Methods: Among the 5,511 respondents of the 2021 National Mental Health Survey, South Korea, 2,764 (18–49 years) were selected. The Korean versions of the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale, Composite International Diagnostic Interview, and Structured Clinical Interview for Internet Gaming Disorder were used as diagnostic assessments. Results: The 6-month prevalence of positive screens for adult ADHD was 3.1%. In individuals aged 18 to 29 years exhibiting adult ADHD symptoms, high prevalence rates of alcohol use, depression, and Internet gaming disorders were observed in the last 12 months. Adults who screened positive for ADHD reported significantly lower life satisfaction and resilience, and higher loneliness and social isolation (vs. non-ADHD group). Conclusion: Adult ADHD symptoms significantly influenced mental well-being, highlighting the need for an appropriate treatment/prevention system, particularly for individuals aged 18 to 29 years.

The WHO Adult ADHD self-report Scale used in a clinical sample of patients with overlapping symptoms - psychometric properties of and scoring methods for the Swedish translation

Background The WHO Adult ADHD Self-report Scale (ASRSv1.1 and ASRS-S) is used for screening for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The capacity of the Swedish version of the scale to discriminate ADHD from borderline personality disorder (BPD) and bipolar disorder (BP) has not been tested. Aim Evaluate scoring methods, psychometric properties, and diagnostic accuracy of the Swedish versions of ASRSv1.1/ASRS-S in a group of patients with ADHD and/or BPD and/or BP. Method A total of 151 young adult psychiatric patients diagnosed with ADHD, BPD and/or BD completed ASRSv1.1 and the Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS) for ADHD symptoms, and the Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS) for functional impairment. ADHD diagnoses were assessed with the Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia (K-SADS) interview. Both versions of the scale were analysed through dichotomised and non-dichotomised scoring for diagnostic accuracy analysis. Results The internal consistency for ASRSv1.1/ASRS-S was satisfactory with α 0.913 and 0.743, respectively. The two-factor structure of the ASRSv1.1 and the one factor structure of ASRS-S were supported by the confirmatory factor analyses. A strong positive correlation was found between ASRSv1.1 and WURS and a moderate level of correlation was found between ASRSv1.1 and SDS. The area under the curve for both scoring methods were excellent with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.808 and 0.817, respectively. Optimal cut-off scores were in line with the original recommendations. Conclusion The Swedish translation of ASRSv1.1/ASRS-S has psychometric properties comparable to other populations and the capacity to screen for ADHD in patients with overlapping symptoms.

A Retrospective Chart Review Evaluating the Changes in Depressive Symptoms in Adult Patients With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) With the Treatment of the Underlying ADHD.

Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) represents a significant public health burden. ADHD is often comorbid with many other psychiatric disorders, with a high co-occurrence with depression. However, there is a paucity in our understanding of the potential impact of treating patients' ADHD on their depressive symptoms. The primary objective of this study was to assess the effect of treating adult ADHD on comorbid depressive symptoms without directly administering treatment for depression in an integrated behavioral health clinic in the primary care setting. We performed a retrospective chart review between April 2021 and May 2022 on adult patients treated in the Primary Care Adult Integrated Behavioral Health Clinic at an urban family medicine residency clinic. For patients with ADHD, we administered the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1) to serve as a marker of ADHD symptom burden and the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire(PHQ-9) to serve as a marker of depressive symptom burden. We administered the questionnaires prior to initiating ADHD treatment and again at the three-month follow-up visit. The ADHD treatment included pharmacotherapy and brief psychological interventions targeted at ADHD. We compared the ASRS scores and PHQ-9 scores at baseline and after three months to determine whether ADHD treatment had any impact on PHQ-9 scores. At baseline, the average ASRS score was 11.3 and the average PHQ-9 score was 8.25. Comparing scores after three months of intervention to the initial scores, our preliminary results demonstrated a trend of improvement in both ASRS and PHQ-9 scores. A total of 75% (n=24/32) of the patients had an improvement in ASRS scores, and 56.7% (n=17/30) of the patients had an improvement in PHQ-9 scores at three months. At three months, there was a decline in PHQ-9 scores with a decrease in ASRS scores following treatment. Our preliminary results suggest that integrated behavioral health treatment of ADHD using a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions may play a role in improving comorbid depressive symptoms.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity symptoms and personal strengths in adults

IntroductionAttention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most prevalent chronic neuropsychiatric disorders in children and adolescents; however, it continues into adulthood in 4-77% of the cases. Due to executive dysfunction, adults with ADHD may have deficits in personal strengths, as well as difficulties utilizing existing strengths in challenging situations, which may add to the functional impairments associated with ADHD in adults.ObjectivesTherefore, we aimed to explore the association between personal strengths and ADHD symptoms in a community sample of adults.MethodsFive hundred and twenty-eight adults (mean age = 21.41 years, SD = 2.29, range: 18 ̶ 28, female: N = 488, 92.4%) filled out an online questionnaire after giving their informed consent. Personal strengths were assessed using Bernstein’s Strengths Scale (BSS) which measures sixteen positive attributes grouped into four higher-order factors: self-directedness (Identity, Self-reflection, Self-confidence, Self-assertion, Imagination/Creativity), self-regulation (Emotional balance, Resilience, Self-control, Self-care, Reality testing), connection (Empathy, Compassion, Humour, Responsibility), and transcendence (Gratitude and Wisdom). ADHD symptoms were measured by the screening version (Part A) of the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS).ResultsParticipants who were screened positive in ASRS (N = 247, 46.7%) scored lower in all but four BSS subscales than participants who were screened negative (N = 280, 53.3%). Effect sizes reached the medium level (Cohen’s d &gt; .5) for Self-confidence, Self-care, Responsibility and Wisdom, and were small (Cohen’s d &gt; .2) for Identity, Self-assertion, Imagination, Resilience, Reality-testing, Emotional balance, and Gratitude. However, no group differences were found in the Self-reflection, Empathy, Compassion, and Humour subscales of the BSS.ConclusionsOur results suggest that ADHD symptoms in adults may be associated with deficits in personal strengths; that is, adults with ADHD may have difficulties, especially in trusting in their abilities, qualities, and judgements, in taking care of their own emotional and physical well-being, in taking responsibilities and in being open to learning from their experiences. Addressing personal strengths in psychosocial interventions for adult ADHD may improve patients’ functioning.This research has been supported by the National Research, Development, and Innovation Office, OTKA-PD-134849 and ÚNKP-22-2-I-ELTE-854 grants.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared