London: A government-commissioned review in the United Kingdom has found that children and young people may be increasingly encouraged to seek diagnoses for conditions such as Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), with experts warning that diagnoses are sometimes being pursued to access support services rather than solely for clinical need.
The review, launched in December, suggests that diagnosis is “increasingly being used to secure support,” even in cases where other forms of assistance might be more appropriate. It also cautioned that a rise in diagnoses does not necessarily indicate an increase in the actual prevalence of these conditions, noting that many behaviours now considered to require treatment were previously viewed as part of typical behaviour.
Demand for autism and ADHD-related services has grown sharply in recent years. The UK has recorded the highest increase in ADHD medication usage across Europe, reflecting a broader surge in demand. However, estimates of how many people are affected by autism or ADHD remain relatively stable. Despite this, diagnoses, self-identification, and requests for support services have all increased significantly.
The report highlighted a potential risk that a wide range of difficulties, particularly those linked to social, educational, or environmental pressures, are increasingly being interpreted through a medical lens. It noted that while there is credible evidence of rising psychological distress, especially among younger people, multiple factors are contributing to this trend.
Among these factors are institutional incentives and pressures within existing service pathways, shifts in help-seeking behaviour, and improved awareness and recognition of symptoms. In the case of autism, the review pointed to particularly rapid growth in identified needs within educational systems, including increased diagnosis rates among girls and among young people without learning disabilities.
Peter Fonagy, professor at University College London and chair of the review, emphasised the need for a more balanced and responsive support system that is less dependent on diagnosis alone. Fonagy stated that this does not mean abandoning diagnosis, as it remains essential for many individuals, for understanding their condition, accessing treatment, and securing support, but rather being more precise about its purpose and limitations.
The findings have prompted varied reactions from organisations. The Mental Health Foundation welcomed the report, acknowledging that psychological distress has been increasing and supporting calls for a “bold, prevention-first approach” to mental health care.
In contrast, the National Autistic Society warned that the review could contribute to an increasingly polarised debate. The charity expressed concern that too much focus may be placed on questioning individuals’ motivations for seeking a diagnosis.
A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care remarked that the review was initiated because many people are still not receiving the support they need. The department reaffirmed its commitment to building a fairer and more effective system, with a stronger emphasis on early intervention of Autism and ADHD. It added that the final recommendations from the review will be released in due course.
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