ADHD Isn’t Overdiagnosed—It’s Finally Being Recognised: Why the Government’s Narrative Misses the Mark
The recent surge in ADHD diagnoses across the UK has sparked headlines and political scrutiny, with some government voices suggesting overdiagnosis as a growing concern. But as someone who has been supporting and assessing autistic and ADHD individuals for over a decade , as well as a mum to two neurodivergent girls, neurodevelopmental care, I can say with confidence: this narrative is not only misleading—it’s clinically unfounded. The rise in ADHD identification reflects progress, not pathology.
According to NHS Digital, an estimated 2.5 million people in England are living with ADHD, including undiagnosed cases. This includes over 740,000 young people aged 5–24 and 1.6 million adults aged 25 and over. These figures don’t suggest inflation—they reflect long-standing under-recognition finally being addressed.
Why ADHD Diagnoses Are Increasing—And Why That’s a Good Thing
1. Increased Awareness and Reduced Stigma
ADHD was historically framed through a narrow lens—often mischaracterised as a “naughty boy” disorder. Girls, women, and high-functioning individuals were routinely missed. Today, thanks to advocacy, education, and better public discourse, more people are recognising symptoms in themselves and their children. This isn’t overdiagnosis—it’s overdue diagnosis.
2. Expansion of ADHD Services
Ten years ago, expert-led ADHD services were rare and fragmented. Now, with the development of specialist pathways and multidisciplinary teams, families can access high-quality assessments and support. The Independent ADHD Taskforce Report (April 2025) highlights the need for continued investment in services, not reduction.
3. Recognition of the Benefits of Timely Diagnosis
A diagnosis isn’t a label—it’s a gateway to understanding, support, and empowerment. Whether it’s access to reasonable adjustments in education, workplace accommodations, or therapeutic interventions, timely diagnosis can transform lives. The NHS’s own expert report states ADHD remains “under-recognised, under-diagnosed and under-treated”, despite rising numbers.
The Political Narrative: A Risk to Neurodivergent Communities
Health Secretary Wes Streeting’s commissioned review into “overdiagnosis” appears to be driven by cost-cutting motives, particularly around benefits allocation. But conflating financial policy with clinical reality risks undermining the legitimacy of neurodivergent experiences. ADHD is not a trend—it’s a neurodevelopmental condition with decades of research behind it.
What We Need Now
Continued investment in ADHD services, especially for adults and underserved groups.
Protection of diagnostic integrity, free from political interference.
Amplification of expert voices in neurodevelopmental care to counter misinformation.
Best Wishes
Kimberley Ashwin
Sources:
Yahoo News – ADHD diagnoses are rising
NHS England – Independent ADHD Taskforce Report
Benefits and Work – NHS expert report
Priory Group – ADHD statistics 2025
House of Commons Library – ADHD statistics.