Responding to announcement of the review, Andy Bell said:
“We welcome today’s announcement that the Department of Health and Social Care will launch a prevalence review to examine rising referrals for mental health, autism and ADHD services.
“Evidence shows a clearly rising trend in mental health needs for both adults and children in recent years. We know that poverty, insecure housing, austerity, and the lasting impact of the pandemic have all placed greater strain on people’s mental wellbeing over the last decade. I have seen no evidence whatsoever that mental health problems are being overdiagnosed. The likelihood is this is a real increase in mental distress.
“This review is an opportunity to examine these drivers and find long term solutions, as well as better understand people’s experiences and the challenges of the system. Waiting lists for mental health and neurodivergence services are too long. So we welcome the Government’s commitment to ensure that everyone gets the care they need, regardless of their background or where they live.
“It’s crucial that this review meaningfully engages with people with experience of mental health problems, autism and ADHD. Their voices should be central to the review.
“The review rightly distinguishes between mental health problems—such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis—and neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD and autism. Whilst neurodivergent people in the UK are far more likely to experience mental health difficulties, the support and treatment are distinct and we must all avoid conflating them.
“We hope that this review will spur immediate and concerted action so we see start to see a decline in the prevalence of mental ill health and better outcomes for those who need support. As well as informing the implementation of the 10-year plan, it’s also critical that the outcomes of this review are considered alongside the Milburn Review into rising inactivity among young people, and the Department for Education’s recently announced consultation on SEND, as part of a cross-government plan to build a mentally healthier future.”
