Professor Philip Asherson, Emeritus Professor of Neurodevelopmental Psychiatry at King's College London, has refuted claims made in the Channel 4 programme 'The Great ADHD Myth?' that ADHD is a "myth" or "social construct". He stated that ADHD can be reliably measured and that features of ADHD are distributed throughout the population.
Professor Asherson noted that the programme focused on children, highlighting the distinction that adults can choose whether to take medication. He emphasised the importance of balancing benefits and adverse effects for children, taking their wishes into account. The decision to use medication should follow reasonable non-pharmacological support, and is used when severe problems persist.
Regarding the efficacy and safety of ADHD medications, Professor Asherson confirmed there is "good evidence on both from numerous RCTs", indicating short-term effects. He also addressed claims about brain imaging, stating that while there are group differences, brain scans are not sensitive or reliable enough to detect individual differences.
Professor Asherson commented on other interventions suggested in the documentary, such as avoiding sugary sweets and processed food, and increasing time in nature. He stated that the evidence base for these is "very limited and poor", though a good diet, exercise, time in nature, and limiting screen time are beneficial for everyone and could reduce ADHD severity.