SMC – Expert Reaction to Interim Report on Rise in Conditions Such as ADHD and Autism as Commissioned by Wes Streeting

Experts comment on an interim report commissioned by Health Secretary Wes Streeting into the rise in ADHD and Autism, as reported by the Times.

Dr Amanda Roestorf, Director of Research at Autistica, said:

“The interim review of the prevalence of autism, ADHD and mental health shows that rising diagnoses are largely about better awareness and identification e.g., of autism, ADHD, not a sudden increase in the number of autistic or ADHD people.

“The Times coverage promotes misinformation and risks oversimplifying what is a complex and carefully balanced interim review.

“The review does not conclude that children are being ‘incentivised’ to seek diagnoses. It highlights that demand is increasing in a system where diagnosis is the main path to support.