Sensemaker Why is the government concerned about mental health overdiagnosis?
Dec 12, 2025
Dr. Lade Smith, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, sheds light on the alarming rise in mental health diagnoses and the pressing need for better resources. Becky, a Londoner, shares her transformative journey through the autism diagnosis process and the vital Access to Work support she received. They discuss the government's new review on rising diagnoses, the societal factors behind mental health issues, and the risks of self-diagnosis. Smith emphasizes the urgent need for trained professionals amid overwhelming demand for services.
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Personal Diagnosis Journey And Impact
- Becky described years of feeling "weird" and pursuing a formal autism diagnosis through lengthy forms and multiple assessments.
- The diagnosis unlocked Access to Work funding and a support worker who transformed her daily work functioning.
Rising Demand Outpaces NHS Capacity
- Demand for ADHD, autism and mental health support has risen sharply, outstripping NHS capacity and assessment waiting lists.
- The government launched a clinical review to examine drivers of demand and potential over-diagnosis.
Social Drivers Behind Rising Mental Illness
- Socioeconomic stressors like poverty, housing and job insecurity have increased risk factors for mental disorders over the past 15 years.
- Dr Lade Smith warns these real pressures, plus the pandemic, likely explain rising rates rather than mass over-diagnosis.