A recent government review has raised concerns regarding the current diagnostic landscape for ADHD and autism, particularly among children and young people. The findings suggest that the medical and social approach to these conditions may be shifting from a historical pattern of under-diagnosis to a new risk of over-diagnosis or mis-diagnosis.

The review highlights that while identifying neurodivergent conditions is essential for providing support, there is a growing concern that societal pressures and evolving diagnostic criteria could lead to individuals being incorrectly labeled. By suggesting that the pendulum may have swung too far, the government is signaling a need for a more cautious and nuanced approach to how these conditions are identified in clinical settings.

While the report identifies the risk of over-diagnosis, it does not explicitly detail the specific clinical criteria or data sets that led to this conclusion. The review serves as a preliminary warning, framing the current situation as a potential systemic issue that requires further investigation to ensure that those who truly need support receive it, while avoiding the medicalization of behaviors that may not meet the threshold for a formal diagnosis.