A government-commissioned review led by Professor Peter Fonagy of University College London warns that diagnosing mental health conditions and ADHD can limit lives by labeling individuals as incapable. The 607-page report finds rising distress among youth is genuine but should not be automatically medicalised, citing insecure work, exam pressure, unaffordable housing, and a lack of hope as key drivers. While medication may help, drugs should not address loneliness.
The review notes true rates of ADHD and autism have remained stable, with recent increases likely due to correcting past underdiagnosis, but warns over-diagnosis is very likely without intervention. Experts stress that diagnoses can overshadow other issues like trauma and may discourage jobseekers, worsening inactivity and mental health. Support should focus on functional improvement in social life, education, and work rather than labels.
Source: Financial Times Companies · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing