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Health Secretary Wes Streeting has initiated an independent review to examine the rising demand for mental health, ADHD, and autism services across England. The investigation aims to determine whether over-diagnosis is occurring and to identify gaps in the existing support system. While the government emphasizes its ongoing investment to expand services, long waiting times for therapy persist in numerous regions.
Data from the NHS reveal a significant increase in the prevalence of mental health issues and ADHD over the past twenty years. The government also suggests that some individuals on waiting lists may not require treatment. Streeting has previously expressed concerns that mental health conditions are sometimes over-diagnosed and that too many people are being prematurely deemed untreatable. Speaking about the review, he stated, “We must look at this through a strictly clinical lens to get an evidence-based understanding… That’s the only way we can ensure everyone gets timely access to accurate diagnosis and effective support.”
This review is being conducted separately from efforts to address the mounting welfare bill, although ministers are mindful of the financial implications of growing benefit claims. Some benefits require proof of how a health condition impacts one’s ability to work, but an official diagnosis is not always mandatory. Earlier this year, the government reversed plans for cuts to disability benefits for mentally ill individuals after significant opposition from Labour backbenchers. Meanwhile, the prime minister recently reaffirmed a commitment to reform the welfare system, criticizing it for “trapping people in poverty” and prematurely labeling “young people off as too ill to work.”
The review is being led by clinical psychologist Professor Peter Fonagy, with findings expected in the summer. Fonagy emphasized the need to “test assumptions rigorously and listen closely to those most affected, so that our recommendations are both honest and genuinely useful.” Current NHS data shows that 22.6% of adults aged 16 to 64 reported mental health problems in 2023-24, up from 17.6% in 2007, with higher rates among young people and the unemployed. Research by the Institute for Fiscal Studies indicates that nearly four million working-age adults are now claiming disability or incapacity benefits, an increase from about three million in 2019.
The Department of Health and Social Care acknowledges that the NHS has been under considerable strain, resulting in long waits, overstretched services, care inequalities, and many people feeling neglected during moments of acute need. The review will assess how NHS mental health services function and explore earlier interventions for support. Officials hope to establish a clear baseline for diagnosis and define what constitutes high-quality care. One factor contributing to extended waiting times appears to be the referral of individuals who may not require formal treatment but could benefit from practical assistance, such as support with social or financial issues or short-term talking therapy. Ongoing investments include enhancing support in schools and expanding access to talking therapy services.
The Royal College of Psychiatrists’ president, Dr. Lade Smith, expressed hope that the review would address the complex reasons behind the growing demand for mental health, ADHD, and autism support. He remarked, “We have a real opportunity to ensure that millions of people receive the care they need both now and for generations to come.” Mental health charity Mind welcomed the government’s announcement, with chief executive Dr. Sarah Hughes describing the review as “a huge opportunity to really understand what is driving increasing levels of mental illness, especially among our young people.” The National Autistic Society also called for urgent action, highlighting that while the number of people seeking assessments is stabilizing, “the average waiting time is rocketing.
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