An independent review into mental health, ADHD, and autism in England, published last Friday, found that mental distress across the population, and particularly among young people, has substantially worsened. Professor Peter Fonagy, chair of the review, told the BBC that former health secretary Wes Streeting was “completely wrong” to suggest overdiagnosis of conditions.
Mr Streeting has since acknowledged his mistake. The review aims to counter the idea that the medicalisation of ordinary states of mind is behind the increase in young people seeking help. It highlights that the rises in psychological distress and the need for support for neurodevelopmental differences are real and connected to social changes, and that current services are not adequate.
Ministers have accepted one proposal from the review for stronger regulation of ADHD and autism assessments. Currently, many of these assessments are provided by private companies without common standards.
The review recommends stronger accountability for mental health within the Department of Health and Social Care. It also suggests that these proposals should be included in the upcoming mental health strategy and advocates for a 10-year plan to integrate mental health and neurodevelopmental support into a single service.