Mental Health Conditions, Autism and ADHD

Thursday 4th December 2025 Written Statements

[The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care (Wes Streeting)]

I am announcing today the launch of an independent review into the prevalence of, and support for, mental health conditions, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and autism.

Over the past decade there has been progress in reducing stigma and an increase in public awareness of mental health conditions, ADHD and autism, and the importance of psychological wellbeing. Yet the prevalence of common mental health conditions for adults has increased to one in five, and many people who are autistic or have ADHD are struggling to access the right support. This Government have already taken significant steps to stabilise and improve NHS services, but there is much more to do.

I am deeply concerned that many adults, young people and children with mental health conditions, ADHD and autism have been let down by services and are not receiving tailored, personalised or timely support and treatment.

That is why I am announcing this independent review to understand the rises in prevalence and demand on services to ensure that people receive the right support, at the right time and in the right place.

The review will look to understand the similarities and differences between mental health conditions, ADHD and autism, regarding prevalence, prevention and treatment, the current challenges facing clinical services, and the extent to which diagnosis, medicalisation and treatment improves outcomes for individuals. This will include exploring the evidence around clinical practice and the risks and benefits of medicalisation. The review will also look at different models of support and pathways, within and beyond the NHS, that promote prevention and early intervention, supplementing clinical support.

I have asked Professor Peter Fonagy to chair this review with the support of two vice chairs, Professor Sir Simon Wessely and Professor Gillian Baird. They each have specific expertise on mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions and extensive clinical and academic experience.

The review will appoint an advisory working group, which involves a multidisciplinary group of leading academics, clinicians, epidemiological experts, charities and people with lived experience, to directly shape the recommendations and scrutinise the evidence.

I have asked the chairs to provide a short report within six months setting out conclusions and recommendations for responding to the rising need, both within Government and across the health system and wider public services.

The terms of reference will be published on gov.uk.

[HCWS1132]