Submitted by Nina Higson-Sweeney
Photo by Phil Hearing on Unsplash
Read the full report and executive summary here
AI disclosure: AI was used to support editing this summary.
Note: This summary was written by the owner of Developing Minds Digest and not the authors of the report.
The UK government asked Professor Peter Fonagy to lead an independent review into rising mental health difficulties and diagnoses of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism in England. The review brought together evidence from national surveys, health records, existing research and people with lived experience.
The review found that mental health difficulties have increased, particularly among young people. Around one in four 16–24-year-olds experienced a common mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety, in 2024, compared with one in six in 1993.
Recorded ADHD and autism diagnoses have also risen sharply. However, the review found limited evidence that these conditions have become substantially more common in the population. Greater awareness and recognition may partly explain the increase in diagnoses, although more research is needed.
The review also highlighted long waiting lists, with hundreds of thousands of people awaiting ADHD or autism assessments. Many struggle to access support without a diagnosis, even when their difficulties affect everyday life.
The review identified several possible contributors to worsening mental health, including poverty, school pressures and loneliness. It emphasised that no single factor explains these changes.
A central recommendation is that people should receive support based on their needs, rather than having to wait for a diagnosis. The review also calls for earlier intervention, better coordination between services and improved access to specialist care.
These recommendations have not yet been implemented, and further research is needed to understand their impact.
I'm a young person - what does this mean for me?
If you're struggling with your mental health, attention or other difficulties, you deserve support. This review recommends making it easier to get the help you need without having to wait for a diagnosis.
I'm a parent - what does this mean for me?
This review recognises how difficult it can be for families to access support, particularly when waiting for ADHD or autism assessments. It recommends that children and families receive help while waiting, rather than having to manage alone until a diagnosis is made. It also highlights the importance of considering children's wider circumstances, including their experiences at school and home.
I'm a teacher - what does this mean for me?
This review recommends that schools respond to children's individual needs, rather than waiting for a formal diagnosis. This could include making adjustments to learning environments, supporting children's wellbeing, and working more closely with health services. It also highlights how school pressures, relationships, and a sense of belonging may affect young people's mental health.
I'm a clinician - what does this mean for me?
This review recommends moving towards more joined-up care that considers mental health, neurodevelopmental differences, and wider circumstances together. It highlights the importance of comprehensive assessments, particularly where difficulties overlap, and providing evidence-based support according to need. Accurate and timely diagnosis remains important, alongside protecting specialist services for those with complex or enduring needs.