Protect ADHD support and study possible post-COVID impact on diagnoses
Ensure the current review of rising ADHD, autism and mental health diagnoses explicitly includes examination of the potential impact of post COVID neurological effects, and that all conclusions are based on clinical evidence. Those with ADHD must not lose support due to assumptions of overdiagnosis.
Signatures
19
signatures
Government response threshold (10,000) · 19/10,000
Debate threshold (100,000) · 19/100,000
- 26 MAR 2026Petition opened for signaturesCreated by Laurence Inman
Background
Government data shows ADHD diagnoses & referrals have risen sharply in recent years, prompting a national review of assessment pathways & support.
Some independent analyses suggest that ADHD in the UK is historically underdiagnosed, not over.
There is scientific evidence suggesting COVID can cause long term cognitive & executive function difficulties, which may overlap with or exacerbate ADHD like symptoms. Many people with no prior ADHD diagnosis have reported post infection cognitive changes.