Government review to find ADHD and autism diagnoses are not broadly overused
A forthcoming UK government report will conclude that ADHD and autism are not being diagnosed on a mass scale, but that many seek formal diagnoses to access support.
The UK government’s one outlet's review of ADHD, autism and mental-health services, initiated by former health secretary Wes Streeting, is set to be published in the coming weeks. Chaired by clinical psychologist Peter Fonagy and supported by Sir Simon Wessely and Gillian Baird, the panel will argue that the conditions are not being overdiagnosed at scale, attributing rising numbers to greater awareness and the practical benefits of an official diagnosis.
It will acknowledge occasional over- and mis-diagnosis, as well as persistent under-diagnosis, and call for a shift away from a strictly diagnosis-led model toward broader access to support. NHS data show waiting lists for child and adult assessments have ballooned, with 270,000 youths awaiting ADHD assessment and 290,000 adults on autism waitlists. The report’s recommendations will be forwarded to the Department for Health and Social Care for possible policy changes.
Why it matters
The findings will shape how millions with ADHD or autism receive support and could alter UK health policy.
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