In just one year, from 2021 to 2022, the number of patients diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in the UK rose from 141,000 to 170,000. This increase is more than 20%. This estimate, however, offered by NHS Business Services Authority, is one of many. In fact, some are considerably more shocking, with Dr Tony Lloyd stating that there has been a 400% increase in the number of adults reaching out to health services for a diagnosis. 

Many are inclined to look at this significant increase and look for reasons as to why cases of ADHD are becoming more ubiquitous. Some have noted the number of public figures opening up about their own diagnoses, such as Sue Perkins and Johnny Vegas, both of whom were diagnosed after the age of fifty. By opening up about their mental health and speaking honestly about their diagnoses, they make it easier for others to do the same. This could be by helping individuals to recognise symptoms of ADHD in their own lives as well as reducing the stigma surrounding neurodivergence and empowering others to speak up.

The outbreak of COVID and the resulting lockdowns have also played a significant role in mental health awareness, with many now placing greater importance on their own well-being. As the discussion surrounding mental health both continues and grows, so does awareness and support. This includes the conversations happening across social media platforms, such as TikTok. While these platforms are often scrutinised for the negative effect they can have upon mental health, it is important to acknowledge that they can also have such benefits, as has been proven among neurodivergent communities.

While these recent developments certainly contribute to the rising number of ADHD diagnoses, it is also likely that this neurodivergence existed prior. Cases for ADHD have often been considered to be severely underdiagnosed, with ADHD UK estimating that around 80% of individuals with ADHD don’t actually realise. This equates to around two million people in the UK alone.

Many of these cases of ADHD going undiagnosed are due to archaic considerations surrounding the disorder, as well as a number of misconceptions. It was believed, for instance, that due to the majority of cases of ADHD being diagnosed in children, those around the age of seven years, that individuals simply “grew out” of the disorder. However, studies now demonstrate that more than 60% of children who are diagnosed with ADHD continue to experience symptoms as an adult. 

These figures should be concerning, even as a greater number of ADHD diagnoses are made, because the support to match the need is simply not there. Health services in the UK continue to fall short of being able to deliver the necessary services required by those with ADHD with many psychiatrists not receiving appropriate training and the number of clinicians remaining too low to meet demand. This is why it is increasingly important that we support a greater awareness of ADHD and the empowerment of services seeking to help those in need. 

If you feel that you are experiencing issues with inattentiveness or hyperactivity, then you may wish to speak to someone about your mental health. At Bristol Counselling And Psychotherapy, we offer such support, creating safe spaces for individuals and couples to discuss their mental health with an experienced and trained therapist. If you’d like to discuss our services or arrange for an initial consultation, please contact us by emailing hello@bristolcounsellingandpsychotherapy.co.uk or, alternatively, by calling 07751 271709.