Thereâs no denying a shift in how we talk about ADHD and the number of people who are being diagnosed with it. Across the UK and beyond, recorded rates of ADHD are rising quickly. But what does that actually mean? And is ADHD truly becoming more common, or are we just getting better at recognising it? The reality is that both factors matter, and understanding the nuance is important, especially as public services struggle to keep pace with demand.
Understanding the Rise in ADHD Diagnoses.
Recent data from NHS England shows a clear upward trend in recorded ADHD cases. Between 2016/17 and 2024/25, the proportion of people with an ADHD diagnosis on GP records has increased substantially for both males and females across age groups. For example, recorded prevalence in males rose from around 0.7% to 1.6% over that period, with similar upward shifts in females. Young adults and adolescents now show some of the highest recorded rates.
Meanwhile, NHS estimates suggest that around 2.5 million people in England may have ADHD, which includes people without a formal diagnosis. This is broadly consistent with established prevalence estimates of roughly 3-4% of adults and 5% of children and young people. These increases in recorded diagnoses are reflected in treatment data too: research shows that the use of ADHD-related medication in the UK has more than tripled in the past decade, with particularly large increases among adults, especially women.
Itâs important to understand that these are diagnosis and treatment rates, not necessarily changes in the underlying prevalence of ADHD traits in the population. Robust epidemiological research indicates that the true prevalence of ADHD, when assessed using standardised clinical criteria, has been relatively stable over time in many settings.
So Why are More People Getting Diagnosed?
The answer isnât straightforward, but several key factors help explain the trend:
Greater awareness and understanding.
For many years, ADHD â especially in adults, young girls, and women â was significantly under-recognised. Changes in diagnostic criteria, better professional training, and broader public awareness mean more people are being recognised and referred for assessment than ever before.
People who may in the past have struggled without understanding why are now asking for help. This is a positive development: accurate identification means individuals can access the right support and strategies that make a real difference in daily life.
More varied presentations are recognised.
ADHD doesnât look the same for everyone. Inattentive symptoms, internal restlessness, emotional dysregulation, and executive function challenges may be subtle yet profoundly impactful. In recent years, these presentations have come to clinical attention more often, which inevitably increases diagnosis rates as diagnostic frameworks adapt.
Better access to information.
Todayâs digital age makes it easier for people to learn about ADHD, but easier access also brings mixed effects. Accurate information helps people understand when to seek assessment. Yet at the same time, variable quality online content means interpretation can be tricky; professional evaluation remains essential to rule out other causes and tailor support appropriately.
The Effect on Public Services.
The sharp rise in demand for ADHD assessments is putting enormous pressure on public services in the UK. In March 2025, NHS data suggested that up to 549,000 people were waiting for an ADHD assessment, with many of these people waiting for two years or more.
Long waits can be deeply frustrating and sometimes harmful, especially for young people whose education, confidence and wellbeing are affected while they wait. Itâs not uncommon for parents, carers and adults to feel that the public sector simply cannot meet demand in a timely way.
This is where private ADHD clinics like Beyond Clinics can help, playing a valuable role alongside public services. Private clinics can offer:
Timely assessment: Many people turn to private assessment because the wait times on the NHS are so long. By offering timely, high-quality diagnostic evaluations, private clinics help individuals and families get answers sooner.
Comprehensive support: Private services can provide holistic care that goes beyond diagnosis, including structured recommendations, personalised treatment planning, psychoeducation and practical strategies.
Bridging gaps: In a system where access to specialist neurodevelopmental assessment is stretched, private clinics help fill important gaps. This benefits not just individuals, but by reducing backlog and demand pressure, the system as a whole.
Of course, private ADHD assessment isnât the right choice for everyone, and equity of access remains a broader concern. But having more pathways into accurate diagnosis and supportive care is a positive development.
A Compassionate Perspective.
At its core, ADHD isnât an âillnessâ in the way a contagious disease is. Instead, it is best understood as a neurodevelopmental profile that comes with both challenges and strengths. Traits such as difficulty with focus, impulsivity or organisation can be distressing, and they often interact with environmental demands in ways that make life harder. But with understanding, compassionate assessment and tailored support, many people learn strategies that significantly improve wellbeing and performance. Itâs vital that conversations about ADHD remain grounded in empathy and real-world experience. The rising numbers we see in clinical settings are not just statistics: they represent parents trying to help their children thrive, adults seeking to understand themselves better, and families wanting support. Listening to these lived experiences matters just as much as analysing figures.
Looking Forward.
Whatâs clear is that ADHD will continue to be part of how we understand human neurodiversity. Rates of diagnosis are rising because we are finally recognising what was often missed before. Thatâs largely a good thing. At the same time, public health, education and social care systems must catch up, not by questioning validity or shutting doors, but by expanding capacity, improving training, and increasing access to compassionate care. When we approach ADHD with clarity, kindness and evidence-based practice, we empower people and that is the most important outcome of all.
