Key facts
- A review in England found a risk of over-diagnosis for ADHD and autism.
- The review called for tougher regulation of private assessment firms and a ban on advertising.
- Experts noted that diagnoses have risen significantly over the past 25 years.
- The review highlighted that diagnoses can become labels that define people by their difficulties rather than their strengths.
- Children diagnosed with autism and ADHD before age 17 are four times more likely to be not in education, employment, or training between 16 and 24.
- The review found people are also harmed by long waits for diagnosis.
An official review in England has found a risk that people are being over-diagnosed with ADHD and autism, with experts noting that the rise in diagnoses over the past 25 years means cases now appear to be outstripping the expected number in the population for some younger age groups.
The review, ordered by Wes Streeting, the then-health secretary, called for tougher regulation of private firms offering assessments for the NHS, citing concerns about quality and consistency, and proposed a ban on advertising.
Experts stated that diagnoses of mental health problems, ADHD, and autism too often become labels that define individuals by their difficulties rather than their strengths and potential, potentially harming their prospects at school, in work, and in relationships. Children diagnosed with autism and ADHD before the age of 17 are around four times more likely to end up not in education, employment, or training between 16 and 24.
The review also highlighted that people are being harmed by long waits for diagnosis. The Watson family, for example, waited three years for an autism assessment for their son Atlas, who is now nearly seven and non-verbal. The review suggests reassessing those on waiting lists to prioritize those with the highest needs and exploring non-medical support options.
Professor Peter Fonagy, the review chair, stated that the system is under immense strain and that diagnosis should no longer be the sole pathway to support. The review also warned of a risk of blurring the lines between diagnosable conditions and normal variations in human brain function, cognition, and behavior, with data suggesting over 4% of children aged six to 17 are now diagnosed with autism, exceeding the estimated true level of 1-2% from studies.
Mel Merritt of the National Autistic Society said successive governments have failed autistic people, and Abigail Ampofo of YoungMinds noted that young people often feel blamed for their mental health issues. The government welcomed the report and plans to introduce a new model of support in its forthcoming mental health strategy, along with tougher regulation of ADHD and autism assessments.