NHS England has released its first official estimate of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) cases in the country, revealing that nearly 2.5 million people are living with the neurodevelopmental condition. This includes around 1.7 million who may still be undiagnosed.
According to the data, around one in every 23 people in England is estimated to have ADHD, a condition that affects concentration, impulse control, and organisation. The estimate was based on guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), suggesting 3–4% of adults and 5% of children and young people are affected.
Diagnosis demand surges post-pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly accelerated demand for ADHD assessments and treatment. According to figures from the ADHD Foundation, the demand for diagnoses has increased by over 400% since 2020. Prescription rates for ADHD medications also rose dramatically, with a BMJ Mental Health study reporting an increase from 25.17 prescriptions per 1,000 people in 2019-20 to 41.55 in 2023-24.
As of the end of March 2025, over 549,000 people were on NHS waiting lists for an ADHD assessment—up from 416,000 a year earlier. Two-thirds of these are aged between five and 24.
Millions living without diagnosis or support
NHS England’s analysis estimates that 741,000 children or young adults between the ages of 5 and 24 have ADHD, along with 147,000 children under five. Although ADHD is not commonly diagnosed in under-fives, prevalence estimates provide insight into future diagnostic trends.
Social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram have played a role in raising awareness, which experts say has contributed to more people recognising symptoms and seeking diagnosis.
Benefit claims tied to ADHD and mental health surge
Government officials are expressing concern over a sharp rise in benefits claimed by those with mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions, including ADHD. Spending on the Access to Work scheme, which offers support such as work coaches and assistive equipment, rose to £258 million last year—a 40% jump from 2022-23.
Around one-third of all claims are now driven by mental health conditions, up from just 5% a decade ago. Some individuals claim up to £69,000 annually through the scheme.
Call for better ADHD care and data inclusion
Louise Ansari, Chief Executive of Healthwatch England, described the NHS estimate as “a first step” in understanding the growing demand for ADHD support. She highlighted that many people may still be living without any diagnosis or formal support due to long waiting times.
Ansari urged that ADHD figures be integrated into official NHS waiting list data to provide a more transparent view of the backlog and ensure those in need receive timely care.
