England Launches Major Review Amid Soaring Mental Health, ADHD, and Autism Service Demand

England’s Health Secretary, Wes Streeting, has initiated a comprehensive independent review into the rapidly increasing demand for mental health, ADHD, and autism services. The inquiry aims to investigate potential instances of over-diagnosis while simultaneously identifying critical gaps in current support provisions.

While the government asserts ongoing investment in expanding these services, significant waiting lists for therapy persist across many regions. Official NHS data reveals a substantial rise in reported mental health problems and ADHD diagnoses over the last two decades. Authorities suggest that some individuals currently awaiting treatment may not require clinical intervention.

Streeting has previously hinted at a trend of “overdiagnosing” mental health conditions, with the government arguing that this strain on the system contributes to extended waits for those with urgent needs. Millenium TV understands this review is distinct from broader government efforts to address the growing welfare bill, though ministers are keen to reform the welfare system, which the Prime Minister recently described as “trapping people in poverty” and “writing young people off as too ill to work.” This follows an earlier government reversal on planned disability benefit cuts after strong opposition.

Clinical psychologist Professor Peter Fonagy will lead the new review, with its findings anticipated for publication in Summer 2026. Streeting emphasized the necessity of a “strictly clinical lens to get an evidence-based understanding… That’s the only way we can ensure everyone gets timely access to accurate diagnosis and effective support.”

Professor Fonagy articulated the review’s objective: “to test assumptions rigorously and listen closely to those most affected, so that our recommendations are both honest and genuinely useful.”

NHS figures indicate that the proportion of adults aged 16 to 64 reporting mental health problems climbed to 22.6% in 2023-24, a notable increase from 17.6% in 2007. These rates are particularly elevated among younger demographics and the unemployed. Research from the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) shows approximately four million working-age adults in England and Wales were claiming disability or incapacity benefits as of March this year, up from nearly three million in 2019.

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) acknowledged that increased pressure on the NHS has meant “people with acute needs have faced long waits, had to navigate overstretched services, experienced inequalities in care and felt abandoned when support was needed most.” The review will scrutinize NHS service delivery and explore options for earlier intervention and support.

Government sources, speaking to Millenium TV, indicated a desire to establish clear benchmarks for diagnosis and high-quality care. It is believed that a contributing factor to lengthy waits is the referral of individuals to waiting lists who might benefit more from practical support, such as assistance with social or financial challenges, or short-term talking therapies. The government is already investing in enhanced support within schools and expanding talking therapy services.

Dr. Lade Smith, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, stated: “We expect the review will adequately consider the many complex reasons that more people are in need of mental ill-health, ADHD and autism support. We have a real opportunity to ensure that millions of people receive the care they need both now and for generations to come.”

Mental health charity Mind welcomed the announcement, with chief executive Dr. Sarah Hughes remarking: “This is a huge opportunity to really understand what is driving increasing levels of mental illness, especially among our young people.” The National Autistic Society highlighted the urgent need for action, noting that while assessment requests are plateauing, average waiting times are significantly rising.