The News Meeting Why has Wes Streeting launched a review into autism and ADHD diagnoses?
Dec 4, 2025
In this discussion, Alex O'Connell, Ideas and Comment Editor at The Observer, dives into Wes Streeting's review on the overdiagnosis of ADHD and autism, exploring its implications for mental health and workforce economics. Andrew Butler, Deputy Sports Editor, examines the politically charged landscape of the upcoming World Cup and its connections to global politics, while Julia Ioffe, an expert on foreign policy, sheds light on the complexities of peace negotiations involving Russia and Ukraine. A thought-provoking blend of mental health and international politics!
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Review Into Rising ADHD And Autism Diagnoses
- The UK health secretary has launched an independent review into rising ADHD and mild autism diagnoses.
- The review will examine social media, economic factors, smartphones and COVID as possible influences.
Economic Angle On Mental-Health Diagnostics
- Rising mental-health-related long-term sickness and antidepressant prescriptions worry policymakers.
- Alex suggests returning people to work could be an economic motive behind investigating diagnoses.
Environment Reveals Preexisting Conditions
- ADHD and mild autism are generally considered neurodevelopmental and present from birth.
- Environmental pressures (poverty, education stress, COVID) can make traits harder to mask, boosting diagnosis rates.
