Diagnosis information

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Core diagnostic criteria, specifiers, differential considerations, and documentation support in one open, scan-friendly view.

F90.xNeurodevelopmentalLocal clinical reference

Criteria: 5 criteria, A–E
Specifiers: 7 specifiers
Differentials: 7 considerations
Severity specifier: Supported

Core diagnostic criteria

All criteria are shown. No expand controls or hidden sections.

A
Core criterion A
≥6 inattentive symptoms and/or ≥6 hyperactive-impulsive symptoms (≥5 for age ≥17) for ≥6 months, inconsistent with developmental level and negatively impacting activities
B
Core criterion B
Several symptoms present before age 12
C
Core criterion C
Symptoms present in ≥2 settings (e.g. home, school, work, with friends)
D
Core criterion D
Clear evidence of interference with or reduction in quality of social, academic, or occupational functioning
E
Core criterion E
Not occurring exclusively during schizophrenia or another psychotic disorder; not better explained by another mental disorder

Specifiers

Combined presentation: ≥6 inattention and ≥6 hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms (≥5 in adults ≥17).
Predominantly inattentive presentation: ≥6 inattention symptoms; <6 hyperactivity-impulsivity.
Predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation: ≥6 hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms; <6 inattention.
In partial remission: Full criteria previously met; symptoms below threshold with ongoing functional impairment.
Severity: Mild: Few symptoms beyond minimum threshold; minor functional impairment.
Severity: Moderate: Symptoms and impairment between mild and severe.
Severity: Severe: Many excess symptoms or markedly severe symptoms; marked impairment across multiple settings.

Documentation support

Consistent with [Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder] [specifier(s)]. Since early development, there have been inattention symptoms, including poor attention to detail; difficulty sustaining attention; seeming not to listen; difficulty following instructions; difficulty organising tasks; avoidance of sustained mental effort; losing necessary items; easy distractibility; forgetfulness, and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms, including fidgeting; leaving seat inappropriately; excessive running or climbing; inability to engage quietly; acting as if driven by a motor; excessive talking; blurting out answers; difficulty waiting turn; interrupting or intruding, present for at least six months and occurring in two or more settings, with onset before age 12, forming a persistent neurodevelopmental pattern. The presentation is further characterised by behavioural, academic, organisational, or social difficulties linked to these symptoms. These symptoms have resulted in clinically significant impairment in social, academic, or occupational functioning, and the pattern is not better explained by oppositional behaviour, mood or anxiety disorders, intellectual disability, learning disorders, or another medical or neurological condition.

Adapt this supplied template to the assessment. It is not a substitute for diagnostic reasoning or local documentation requirements.

DSM-5 DiagnosisDSM-ndv-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhdSupplied local catalogue