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What is DSM-5 for ADHD?

Quick answer: DSM‑5 is the clinical manual that describes ADHD symptoms and diagnostic rules. Adults meet criteria with five or more symptoms in inattentive and or hyperactive impulsive domains, several symptoms present before age 12, and clear impairment in at least two settings.

DSM‑5 lists inattention and hyperactive impulsive symptoms and provides guidance on impact across settings. Clinicians use it with interviews and rating scales.

For adults, patterns must be present since earlier life even if not recognized at the time. Adults meet criteria with 5 or more symptoms in a domain rather than the 6 used for children, and there must be clear evidence of impairment in two or more settings.