NHS data reveals nearly 2.5 million people may have ADHD

Recent NHS England figures indicate that close to 2.5 million individuals in England may have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), including many who remain undiagnosed. This marks the first publicly available estimate of the condition’s prevalence. Among this total, approximately 741,000 are children and young individuals aged between five and 24.

The estimates are based on data from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), which posits that ADHD affects about 3-4% of adults and around 5% of children. Additionally, as of the end of March 2025, over half a million people (549,000) in England were awaiting an ADHD assessment, a rise from 416,000 in March 2024.

Seb Thompson, a consultant clinical psychologist at Cygnet Health Care, highlighted common misconceptions about ADHD and outlined symptoms to consider. He described ADHD as a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

“Individuals with ADHD often experience persistent attention difficulties, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, though some may only display symptoms in one area, such as inattentiveness,” explained Thompson.

He emphasized that while ADHD is often more frequently diagnosed in boys, it is important to recognize that girls can also have the disorder, which may go unnoticed in many cases.

Thompson pointed out that many people may exhibit inattentiveness or restlessness at times, but those with ADHD experience these symptoms consistently, impacting their daily functioning and overall quality of life.

He noted that there are various other conditions that can mimic ADHD symptoms. For example, hearing impairments can lead to inattentiveness, while attention issues may also stem from autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities, or psychological factors such as depression or trauma.

Common signs of ADHD include: – Difficulty maintaining attention on tasks, especially when rewards are not immediate. – Frequent careless mistakes and misplacing items. – High distractibility and daydreaming. – Challenges in planning, organization, and following through on instructions.

These symptoms should be present in multiple environments, such as both home and school.

Hyperactivity and impulsivity are also significant aspects of ADHD. Symptoms include an inability to stay still, excessive restlessness, discomfort with quiet environments, and impulsive behaviors without considering consequences.

Additionally, individuals with ADHD often face low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. “Frustration from these challenges may cause individuals to disengage from work, school, or hobbies, leading to further emotional distress,” Thompson added.

For those concerned about ADHD, Thompson advises consulting a GP, who can direct individuals to appropriate assessment services.

A diagnosis can clarify why individuals experience certain cognitive challenges and can alleviate feelings of personal blame. It also opens up treatment options, including medication and behavioral therapy, which can assist individuals in managing ADHD effectively and developing coping strategies.