--- title: "Government Review Raises Concerns Over ADHD and Autism Diagnoses in Young People" url: https://noti.group/government-review-raises-concerns-over-adhd-and-autism-diagnoses/ language: en publisher: "Noti Group" section: "Health" published: 2026-10-08T23:01:30.000Z updated: 2026-10-09T02:05:10.917Z id: 1ad49be6-d02d-4125-b1d8-ab9a5ed351da source: "BBC News Health https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/crkg7n1ypj24o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss" attribution: "Link to https://noti.group/government-review-raises-concerns-over-adhd-and-autism-diagnoses/ and name Noti Group when you quote or summarize this story." --- # Government Review Raises Concerns Over ADHD and Autism Diagnoses in Young People A recent government review in England has found that diagnoses of ADHD and autism among young people have increased significantly over the past 25 years. A recent government review in England has raised concerns about over-diagnosis of ADHD and autism among young people. The review found that diagnoses of these conditions have increased significantly over the past 25 years, outpacing the expected number in certain age groups. Experts involved in the review pointed to rising cases of mental health problems among young people, which they attribute to a combination of economic uncertainty and social media's influence on their lives. Private companies providing assessments for the NHS are also under scrutiny, with the review calling for stricter regulations due to concerns about quality and consistency. The review's findings suggest that these conditions are being used as labels, defining individuals by their difficulties rather than their strengths and potential. Children diagnosed with autism or ADHD before the age of 17 are at a higher risk of not pursuing education, employment, or training between 16 and 24, according to recent findings. These young individuals may face significant challenges in their transition to adulthood if left unsupported, but timely intervention could greatly improve their prospects for leading more fulfilling lives. In addition to therapies, the review emphasizes the need for comprehensive support that extends to mental health services, as many individuals with autism or ADHD also struggle with conditions like depression. Long waits for diagnosis are not only frustrating for families but can also cause harm, particularly when it comes to children with complex needs who require timely intervention and support to thrive. Ryan and his wife's experience is a stark reminder of the difficulties faced by families navigating the system, as they waited three years for an autism assessment for their son Atlas. The process of navigating the system for families affected by autism and ADHD can be overwhelming, as seen in the case of Atlas's parents. Families like the Watsons often find themselves juggling multiple responsibilities, including work and caregiving duties, which can take a significant toll on their well-being. The long wait times for assessments can exacerbate this stress, leaving families feeling anxious about their child's future and uncertain about how to access necessary support. To address these concerns, the review recommends reassessing those currently on waiting lists to prioritize individuals with the greatest needs and consider alternative forms of non-medical support. This could involve making adjustments in educational settings or workplaces to accommodate individuals with autism and ADHD, as well as providing lifestyle support such as sleep improvement strategies and anxiety management techniques. The review highlights a potential risk of over-diagnosis in cases where difficulties may be seen as part of normal human variation. This blurring of lines between diagnosable conditions and everyday differences in brain function, cognition, and behavior could lead to misdiagnosis or unnecessary medical intervention. Data suggests that the number of children being diagnosed with autism is increasing rapidly, with more than 4% of six- to seventeen-year-olds now receiving a diagnosis. This rate far exceeds the estimated true level of around 1-2%. However, it's worth noting that these figures are based on data from nearly a decade ago, and it's not possible to confirm whether over-diagnosis is currently occurring at scale. Experts warn that autistic individuals are facing significant harm and distress due to inadequate support systems. The UK government has acknowledged that a major overhaul is needed to address the issue of over-diagnosis in ADHD and autism cases. A new model for providing support will be outlined in the forthcoming mental health strategy, expected before the end of the year, while tougher regulations on assessments are also promised. Health Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the importance of early intervention in addressing mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions, highlighting the distress they can cause. --- Source: [BBC News Health](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/crkg7n1ypj24o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss) Published by Noti Group: https://noti.group/government-review-raises-concerns-over-adhd-and-autism-diagnoses/