Anyone who thinks there’s anything remotely amusing about the reported rise in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnoses in the UK needs to have a serious word with themselves.
There is nothing funny about a neurodevelopmental condition. The dismissive claims that “everyone seems to have it” or that it’s simply a “label” make me furious. Those who believe it’s some sort of elaborate joke or conspiracy are either lacking in empathy or have never experienced the reality of living with someone who has ADHD or ASD. And believe me, getting a diagnosis isn’t as easy as just making a quick visit to the GP.
Eighty years ago, autism was thought to affect one in 2,500 children. That number has steadily increased, and now one in 36 children is believed to have ASD. Meanwhile, in the UK, prescriptions for ADHD medication have seen the highest rate of increase over the past four years, particularly in London, where the annual rise is a staggering 28 per cent.
Some have attributed this surge to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the stress and disruption of lockdown exacerbating symptoms and bringing certain behavioural patterns to the forefront. Others, less informed, have suggested ridiculous theories about vaccines. But the simple reality is that awareness around ADHD and autism has increased dramatically. When I was at school in the 1990s, children who struggled to concentrate or regulate their emotions were often dismissed as “naughty” or “troublesome.” Today, we are more educated on the signs to look out for.
A long, exhausting path to diagnosis
Misdiagnosis is a major issue, and a significant barrier to getting the right support. Research shows that one in four autistic adults and one in three autistic women have received at least one incorrect psychiatric diagnosis before finally being diagnosed with autism.
My own four-year-old son is currently on the ASD assessment pathway and may also have ADHD. The process is an absolute slog. He has been on the waiting list since May last year, and at the time, I was warned the wait would be 16 to 18 months. In the meantime, we’ve had to attend multiple hospital appointments, complete online courses, and constantly advocate for him—something that is almost a full-time job in itself. This is especially difficult as a single parent working full-time.
ADHD and ASD are not an ‘excuse’ or a ‘benefit’
There is no incentive to “claim” a neurodevelopmental condition. Some seem to think that ADHD is an easy ticket to extended exam times or that ASD is a free pass to extra privileges, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Yes, a student with ADHD may be given additional time in an exam, but for those who genuinely need it, that time can be the difference between passing and failing. ADHD is not something you can just wake up one day and “decide” to have.
Similarly, some argue that those with ASD have an unfair advantage when it comes to disability access at theme parks and attractions. But even those systems are now heavily regulated. Many parks require pre-booking and detailed evidence before granting queue exemptions, which are often a necessity for children who would otherwise be unable to cope with the stress of long waits.
Earlier this year, Paultons Park, home of Peppa Pig World, faced backlash after scrapping its free essential companion ticket for visitors with disabilities. Instead, carers are now required to pay 50 per cent of the usual ticket price. This decision sparked outrage among families who rely on these accommodations to make outings manageable.
People on the spectrum often struggle with sensory overload and can experience extreme distress in unfamiliar or crowded settings. Many don’t even make it past the car park before the day falls apart. Parents and carers are always on high alert, constantly managing potential meltdowns. The last thing on their minds is whether they are getting “special treatment” at a theme park.
Applying for support Is a nightmare
And let’s address another misconception—the idea that claiming financial support, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA), is an easy way to top up your income. Have these people ever actually seen the application forms? They are extensive, daunting, and require mountains of evidence. Even after submitting everything, you could wait months for a decision, and there’s no guarantee of approval.
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These benefits aren’t handed out freely. They exist to support those who genuinely need them, and the process is deliberately rigorous to ensure only the most deserving cases qualify. The idea that families are “faking” ADHD or autism for financial gain is as offensive as it is ridiculous.
ADHD and autism run in families
Recently, another member of my family was diagnosed with ADHD. Given the strong genetic links, I have now requested to be tested for ADHD and ASD myself. I see so many similarities between my son’s behaviour and my own childhood experiences that I can’t ignore the possibility.
Early diagnosis is crucial. With the right support, children with ADHD and ASD can thrive. Without it, many struggle through school and adulthood, often feeling misunderstood and unsupported. I know this because I lived it.
If my son has ADHD or autism, I will jump through every hoop necessary to ensure he gets the help he needs. No child should have to suffer because of society’s outdated attitudes or bureaucratic barriers. Those who think these conditions are “overdiagnosed” or “not real” should spend a day in the shoes of a parent navigating this system. Maybe then, they’d finally understand.
