Why Are More People Being Referred for ADHD and Autism Assessments?

Recent headlines have highlighted a significant rise in referrals for ADHD and autism assessments across the UK. The Government's interim review into neurodevelopmental conditions suggests that increasing awareness, alongside the need for a formal diagnosis to access support, is contributing to growing demand.

As clinicians who assess children, young people and adults for ADHD and autism, this is something we see every day.

Behind every referral is an individual or family looking for answers. Some have struggled for years without understanding why certain situations feel more challenging than they should. Others have been encouraged by teachers, employers or healthcare professionals to explore whether an assessment may help provide clarity.

Greater awareness is helping more people access support

For many years, ADHD and autism were under-recognised, particularly in women, girls and individuals whose presentation did not fit traditional expectations.

Greater awareness has helped more people recognise traits in themselves or their loved ones and seek professional advice. In our clinic, we regularly meet people who tell us they have finally found an explanation for experiences they have had throughout childhood or adulthood.

That is a positive development.

Seeking an assessment is not about following a trend or obtaining a label. It is about understanding how an individual thinks, learns and experiences the world so that appropriate support can be put in place where needed.

Why are referrals increasing?

The Government's review points to several reasons for the increase in referrals, including:

• Greater public understanding of ADHD and autism.

• Improved recognition by schools, employers and healthcare professionals.

• More adults recognising traits that may have been overlooked during childhood.

• The fact that a diagnosis is often required to access educational, workplace or healthcare support.

These factors mean that more people are seeking assessments than ever before.

A thorough assessment matters

With demand increasing, it is understandable that many people want answers as quickly as possible. However, a high-quality assessment should never be rushed.

A comprehensive assessment involves much more than completing questionnaires. It includes taking a detailed developmental history, exploring current strengths and difficulties, considering information from family members or other professionals where appropriate, and carefully evaluating whether ADHD, autism or another explanation best accounts for an individual's experiences.

Every assessment should be evidence-based, thorough and centred on the individual.

Looking beyond the headlines

News stories often focus on waiting lists and increasing demand. While these are important issues, our focus remains on the person sitting in front of us.

A diagnosis is not the end of the journey; it is often the beginning of a better understanding of an individual's needs, strengths and the support that may help them thrive.

Whether an assessment confirms ADHD, autism, another condition, or no diagnosis at all, the aim is always the same: to provide clear, evidence-based clinical guidance that helps people move forward with confidence.

Thinking about an assessment?

If you have concerns about yourself, your child or someone you care about, seeking specialist advice can be an important first step.

At Hearfield Mashru, we provide comprehensive neurodevelopmental assessments delivered by experienced consultant clinicians. We understand that every person's story is different, and we believe assessments should reflect that—taking the time to listen, understand and provide clear, evidence-based recommendations tailored to the individual.