RCGP responds to the independent review into ADHD and autism

In response to Professor Fonagy's independent review into mental health conditions, ADHD and autism, which highlights an increase in mental distress among young people and the need to adopt a society-wide approach to support, Professor Victoria Tzortziou Brown, President of the Royal College of GPs, said:

"We are encouraged to see that Professor Fonagy and his team have approached this review with sensitivity in respect of people living with ADHD, autism and mental health conditions.

"Living with conditions such as ADHD and autism can present significant challenges for young people, particularly when their needs are not recognised or appropriately supported. This review is clear that the increase in young people presenting with mental health conditions is genuine. It also states that ADHD and autism are neurodevelopmental conditions that require a range of support to meet the individual needs of the patient. The review also raises legitimate concerns about the increasing risk of misdiagnosis and overdiagnosis if current trends continue. These must be taken seriously, alongside the risks of delayed diagnosis, to ensure that young people receive accurate, evidence-based and timely assessments and the care and support they need.

"GPs and our teams already play an integral role caring for young people with mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions - and the increase in numbers of those presenting with such conditions in general practice is certainly being noticed on the front line. This is without appropriate resource to meet this increasing need, and often without sufficient access to onward specialist services. As such, the Government's commitment to expand capacity in NHS mental health services for children and young people is welcome - but implementation, especially in ensuring access is consistent across the country, will be key.

"Mental health and neurodevelopmental needs frequently coexist, and we need integrated, coordinated pathways that respond to the whole person, rather than separating young people into different services according to diagnostic categories. Earlier intervention and support closer to home, including through schools and community services, will be essential, alongside timely access to specialist assessment and treatment when needed.

"We are also encouraged by the Government's commitment to better regulation around assessments for ADHD and autism, which must be evidence-based and in line with national clinical guidance.

"We welcome the shift towards meeting young people's needs without making access to appropriate support dependent on a diagnosis, alongside a greater focus on prevention and early intervention. However, it is vital that young people who would benefit from a diagnosis can still access timely, high-quality assessment. It's also important that the need to facilitate support for young people with mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions, who may not necessarily require a diagnosis, does not inadvertently fall to GPs, and that a society-wide approach is explored. This will require clear responsibilities, appropriate resources and effective coordination across health, education and community services."

Further information

RCGP press office: 0203 188 7659
press@rcgp.org.uk

Notes to editors

The Royal College of General Practitioners is a network of more than 54,000 family doctors working to improve care for patients. We work to encourage and maintain the highest standards of general medical practice and act as the voice of GPs on education, training, research and clinical standards.