A recent survey in the UK has revealed significant differences in ADHD treatment, particularly highlighting the challenges many young adults encounter upon reaching the age of 18. Researchers have raised concerns that the existing healthcare system is not adequately supporting young adults transitioning from children’s to adult services, which often leaves them without access to necessary treatments due to poor connectivity between the services.
A national survey in the UK conducted as part of University of Exeter research has revealed significant disparities in the treatment of ADHD, emphasizing the challenges faced by many young adults once they turn 18.
Researchers have expressed concern that the current system fails to cater adequately to many young adults during their transition from children’s services to adult services. This situation often leaves them struggling to obtain treatment because the various services do not interface effectively.
Over 750 individuals from various regions, including healthcare professionals, commissioners, and those with firsthand experience of ADHD, took part in the MAP National Survey. This survey underscores the difficulties GPs encounter when it comes to prescribing ADHD medications.
ADHD affects around seven percent of children and up to five percent of adults, presenting symptoms such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention that can disrupt everyday functioning. Neglecting to treat ADHD, especially during the transition to adulthood, can have serious repercussions for both patients and their families, amplifying the likelihood of mental health crises and challenges in work, education, and relationships. This inadequacy also places extra strain on healthcare providers.
The survey highlighted inconsistencies in “shared care” agreements required between GPs, mental health professionals, and patients for GPs to prescribe ADHD medications. This issue becomes particularly pronounced when young individuals move to adult mental health services, indicating that the current system falls short during a pivotal moment in their lives. The NICE guidelines recommend that GPs should prescribe ADHD medication for adult patients under a shared care agreement with adult mental health services.
However, the survey indicated that establishing such agreements is not straightforward, with findings suggesting that some GPs may lack the necessary support to prescribe in this manner. In fact, without adequate support, some GPs may hesitate to prescribe ADHD medication due to worries about insurance and liability. This issue can be particularly challenging for patients who have received a private diagnosis, often leaving GPs unable to provide appropriate care and many patients without access to the medications they require.
In addition, over 40 percent of respondents reported waiting times of two years or more for appointments with adult mental health services. This situation places an even heavier burden on GPs, who are left to provide care without the needed support, possibly resulting in the withdrawal of medication even when treatments have been effective in childhood. Additionally, access to ADHD treatment is notably restricted for certain underserved populations, including young women and youths exiting care, thereby exacerbating health disparities.
The survey findings emerge as NHS England has announced the formation of a taskforce and a comprehensive review of ADHD services. NHS England stated: “Individuals with ADHD deserve access to a compassionate and effective service from both the NHS and the wider community. We recognize that there is still a lot to be done, yet we acknowledge the complexities and challenges involved in achieving this goal.”
Dr. Anna Price, a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Exeter, remarked: “Our results underscore the necessity for a coordinated strategy to tackle the issues that lead to a geographical disparity in accessing ADHD treatment. GPs and primary care professionals require enhanced support to facilitate shared care prescribing of ADHD medications in accordance with UK guidelines.”
“We understand that failing to address ADHD can have profound effects on individuals. Turning 18 represents a pivotal and vulnerable stage in life, and our research illustrates that lack of treatment during this period can be particularly harmful to young people who are learning to manage their health needs while also facing significant life changes, such as taking critical exams, moving out for the first time, and starting university or a career.”
“We welcome the creation of the NHS England taskforce, as it represents an essential step towards improving outcomes for those with ADHD.”
Experts from the University of Exeter have also launched a collaboration focused on the Science of ADHD and Neurodevelopment, partnering with individuals who have lived experience and healthcare practitioners. This initiative aims to develop practical solutions, such as tailored digital interventions and standardized templates for shared care agreements, to support individuals with ADHD in thriving.
