Why are more people than ever being diagnosed with ADHD and autism? Is it better awareness, or are we over-pathologising natural differences in how people think and behave?

In this episode of Perspectives, Priory’s expert panel explores ADHD and autism—two conditions that have seen a dramatic rise in diagnoses in recent years, while discussing the evolving understanding of neurodiversity, the role of diagnosis, and the impact on mental health.

On this episode:

🔵 Why women with ADHD are often underdiagnosed – and how it presents differently

🔵 Social media’s role in ADHD and autism awareness (and misinformation risks)

🔵 Should ADHD and autism be considered ‘superpowers’ – or does this minimise real struggles?

On the panel:

▶️ Dr Samir Shah, Consultant Psychiatrist and Medical Director

▶️ Dr David McLaughlan, Consultant Psychiatrist and Co-Founder of Curb

▶️ Debbie Longsdale, Priory's Therapy Director

LINKS TO SOURCES:

In 2021, a study found a 787% rise in the number of diagnoses between 1998 and 2018 in the UK:

https://www.theguardian.com/society/2024/mar/04/uk-increase-autism-diagnoses-neurodiversity

In 2023, ADHD was the second-most viewed condition on the NHS website.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c3ejky0dy47o

TikTok and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Cross-Sectional Study of Social Media Content Quality

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/07067437221082854

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Priory offers fast access to autism assessments. Find out more and book yours here 👇

https://www.priorygroup.com/mental-health/autism/autism-assessments