Is ADHD Being Over-Diagnosed?

Yesterday, headlines across the UK reported that Health Secretary Wes Streeting has ordered a major review into the rise of ADHD, autism, and other mental health diagnoses. 

The review follows concerns about increasing benefit claims and questions around whether some neurodevelopmental conditions are now being over-diagnosed, misdiagnosed, or assessed without sufficient regulation.

In response to this national conversation, Dr Lisa Williams, Founder and Clinical Director of The Autism Service, was interviewed on LBC News to share her clinical perspective on whether ADHD is being over-diagnosed — and what this means for the people who genuinely need assessment and support.

Her interview challenges assumptions, highlights problems within the current diagnostic landscape, and offers clarity for individuals now asking:

“If I suspect I have ADHD, what should I do next?”

Listen to the LBC News interview here

What Dr. Lisa Williams Told LBC News

1. Why the Review Is Overdue

Dr Williams explained that a review into ADHD and autism assessments is not only welcome – it is overdue.

• There has been a significant rise in diagnoses over the last five to 10 years.
• But there has not been equivalent regulation on what a diagnostic assessment should involve.
• Diagnostic standards vary widely across providers.

“Over the last five to ten years we’ve seen a significant increase in diagnoses… and a lack of regulation on what an assessment should look like.”

2. Online Assessments Have Changed Diagnostic Accuracy

One of the biggest shifts has been the rise of online ADHD and autism assessments, especially during and after COVID.

• ADHD and autism are difficult to assess accurately online. There are also many types of ADHD.
• The nuances of communication, behaviour and interaction are harder to observe through a screen.
• Many assessments have moved online for speed, not accuracy. Choosing the right assessment is crucial.

“These conditions are notoriously difficult to assess reliably online.”

3. Face-to-Face Assessment Is Crucial

Dr Williams emphasised something many clinicians agree on:

Diagnosis is more accurate when carried out in person.

• Cameras, WiFi delays and screen barriers change how people communicate.
• Autism assessments rely heavily on observing interaction and behaviour.
• In-person evaluations enable better clinical judgement.

“Spending time with the person in person leads to more accurate observations and diagnostic opinions.”

4. A Concerning Dilution in Professional Qualification Standards

Another key issue raised:

• There has been a dilution in the level of qualification and experience among those carrying out diagnostic assessments.
• Some assessors lack the depth of understanding required to differentiate between ADHD, autism, anxiety, trauma, or other explanations for someone’s difficulties.

“People with less typical backgrounds [are] doing diagnostic work without the breadth of experience to rule in or rule out explanations.”

5. Has ADHD Been Misunderstood? The “Elephant in the Room”

Dr Williams acknowledged that ADHD has gained public attention rapidly, but without sufficient nuance. Misinformation on social media has also had a part to play.

• Community pressure and increased awareness have accelerated diagnosis.
• Politicians and clinicians have been hesitant to raise concerns.
• The review surfaces the “elephant in the room” many feared discussing.

“He’s naming the elephant in the room people haven’t spoken about for fear of judgement.”

6. The Real Impact: People Who Need Help Are Struggling to Access It

Perhaps the most powerful concern raised:

• Individuals with genuine, debilitating ADHD or autism are now struggling to access care.
• Services are overwhelmed, waiting lists are long, and inappropriate referrals are rising.
• Some people being assessed would not historically have met diagnostic thresholds.

“Those living with these conditions… can’t access the care they need because of this dilution.”

7. Are We Diagnosing ADHD Too Quickly?

Dr Williams warns that diagnosis cannot become a catch-all solution for anyone who is struggling.

• Not every difficulty is caused by ADHD or autism.
• The NHS is looking at supporting needs, not just labelling conditions.
• Diagnosis must remain meaningful.

“If we diagnose every other person with ASD or ADHD, it becomes a meaningless diagnosis.”

8. The Bigger Picture: A System Under Pressure

The rise in referrals often stems from the lack of alternative forms of support.

People who are overwhelmed, burnt out, anxious or struggling at work often feel that a diagnosis is the only route to help. As Dr Williams explained:

• Professionals often have no alternatives to offer, so diagnosis becomes the default pathway.
• This funnels more people through the system, increasing overwhelm and reducing accuracy.

“People are being prematurely pushed down a diagnostic route.”

Considering Whether You Might Have ADHD? Where to Turn Next

If recent headlines have made you question your own experiences, you are not alone.

Here is Dr Williams’ guidance on what to do next:

1. Start with reflection

Look at how your challenges impact daily functioning. Are you asking yourself, “why can’t I focus?” Do you struggle with attention, organisation, impulsivity, or emotional regulation?

2. Seek a provider who follows NICE guidelines

This is critical. A proper ADHD assessment should include:

• A comprehensive clinical interview
• Developmental history
• Behavioural observations
• Screening for alternative explanations
• Tools validated for ADHD diagnosis

3. Choose a team with multi-disciplinary expertise

Psychologists, psychiatrists and specialist clinicians working together produce more accurate assessments.

4. Avoid “fast” online assessments

Speed should never replace accuracy.

5. If you want clarity, get an assessment you can trust

The Autism Service offers evidence-based, face-to-face ADHD assessments with highly qualified clinicians.

If you suspect you may have ADHD and want clear, regulated, clinically robust guidance:

Enquire about an ADHD assessment with The Autism Service

Our team provides thorough, NICE-compliant, face-to-face assessments for adults and young people. We help you understand whether ADHD is truly the root of your difficulties and what support you may need next.

Contact us today to begin your assessment journey.