Is a Review of Mental Health and ADHD Diagnoses on the Horizon?

The independent review into rising demand for mental health services, ADHD, and autism in England, led by Health Secretary Wes Streeting, aims to address the urgent need for timely diagnoses and support. With £688 million in additional funding, the review will examine the challenges faced by individuals requiring mental health support and evaluate the pressures on the healthcare system, amidst concerns of overdiagnosis and long waiting times.

Last updated: 10 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Health Secretary Wes Streeting's announcement of an independent review is a significant step in addressing the rising demand for mental health, ADHD, and autism services in England. This review comes at a time when the healthcare system is under immense pressure, leading to long waits for individuals in urgent need of support. The government has acknowledged these challenges and is taking steps to ensure that all individuals receive timely access to accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.

Key takeaways

The independent review will focus on mental health, ADHD, and autism service demand.
£688 million in additional funding has been allocated to support these services.
The review aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for improving mental health care.
Concerns about overdiagnosis and long waiting times have been raised by various stakeholders.
The review is set to be led by clinical psychologist Prof Peter Fonagy, with findings expected in Summer 2026.

Timeline: how we got here

The increasing demand for mental health services in England has been a growing concern over the past few years. Below is a brief timeline highlighting key events leading up to the current review:

2019: Approximately three million working-age adults in England and Wales were on disability or incapacity benefits.
March 2023: The number rose to around four million, signalling an alarming increase in demand for mental health support.
October 2023: Health Secretary Wes Streeting announces the independent review, backed by £688 million in funding.
Summer 2026: Expected publication of the review's findings.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The launch of the independent review represents a new commitment from the government to address the pressing issues surrounding mental health services. The review will critically assess the current landscape and seek to develop evidence-based solutions to improve service delivery and access.

What was already established

Prior to this announcement, concerns were widespread regarding the overdiagnosis of mental health conditions and the long waiting times for urgent care. The government faced backlash earlier this year over proposed cuts to disability benefits, which highlighted the need for reform in how mental health issues are addressed.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For consumers, the increasing pressures on mental health services have resulted in significant delays and difficulties accessing necessary support. Families are often left navigating overstretched services, facing inequalities in care, and feeling abandoned at critical times. With the new funding and review in place, it is hoped that these challenges will be addressed, leading to quicker and more reliable access to mental health services.

Businesses and jobs

Businesses may also feel the impact of these changes, particularly as employee mental health becomes a crucial aspect of workplace wellbeing. Companies may need to adapt to new regulations or expectations regarding mental health support, which can influence hiring practices and workplace policies. As mental health awareness grows, employers could face both challenges and opportunities in fostering a supportive work environment.

Policy and regulation

The review could inform future policies related to mental health services, including funding allocations and regulatory frameworks. As the government aims to reform the welfare system, the findings from this review may also influence broader discussions on disability and incapacity benefits, particularly for those with mental health conditions.

Numbers that matter

4 million working-age adults in England and Wales currently claim disability or incapacity benefits as of March 2023.
£688 million allocated to improve mental health services.
Increase from 3 million claimants in 2019, highlighting a significant rise in demand.
Expected publication of the review's findings in Summer 2026.
Over 100 Labour backbenchers opposed cuts to disability benefits earlier this year, indicating political pressure on this issue.

Definitions and jargon buster

ADHD: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, a condition affecting attention and impulse control.
Autism: A developmental disorder affecting communication and behaviour, often requiring tailored support.
DHSC: Department of Health and Social Care, responsible for overseeing health services in England.
Evidence-based: An approach that relies on empirical evidence and data to inform practices and decisions.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, stakeholders should monitor the review's progress and engage with the consultation process. Mental health advocacy groups and professionals are encouraged to contribute their insights to ensure comprehensive coverage of the issues at hand.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the review develops, it will be critical to evaluate how the additional funding is being allocated and whether it is effectively addressing the needs of those requiring mental health support. Stakeholders should also prepare for potential changes in policies or practices resulting from the review's recommendations.

Signals to watch

Updates from the DHSC regarding the review's progress and findings.
Changes in waiting times for mental health services as funding is implemented.
Responses from mental health charities and advocacy groups on the review's outcomes.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about the review's progress and engage with advocacy groups.
Access available mental health resources and support services as needed.
Encourage open discussions about mental health in your community or workplace.

Don’t

Ignore signs of mental health struggles in yourself or others.
Delay seeking help when facing mental health challenges.
Overlook the importance of evidence-based approaches in mental health care.

Checklist

Review available mental health services in your area.
Assess your workplace's mental health support policies.
Engage in conversations about mental health within your community.
Keep track of changes in mental health policies that may affect you.
Consider reaching out to advocacy groups for support and guidance.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the review is a positive step forward, there are uncertainties regarding its outcomes and the potential impact on existing services. The complexities surrounding mental health diagnoses and the varied reasons individuals seek help mean that solutions may not be straightforward. Additionally, the long timeline for the review's findings raises questions about the immediacy of any changes in service delivery.

Bottom line

The independent review into mental health services is a crucial initiative aimed at addressing the increasing demand for support in England. With a focus on evidence-based solutions and additional funding, it offers hope for improvements in the system. However, stakeholders must remain vigilant and engaged as they navigate the complexities of mental health care in the coming years.

FAQs

What is the purpose of the independent review into mental health services?

The independent review aims to assess the rising demand for mental health, ADHD, and autism services, focusing on improving access to timely diagnoses and effective support.

How much funding has been allocated for mental health services?

The government has allocated £688 million to support the improvement of mental health services in England.

When will the findings of the review be published?

The findings of the independent review are expected to be published in Summer 2026.