UK Mental Health Review Calls for Earlier Support Based on Individual Needs

A government-commissioned review of mental health and neurodevelopmental services in England has called for a major change in how people access psychological support. Led by Professor Peter Fonagy, a clinical psychologist at University College London, the review warns that rising demand and lengthy waiting lists are putting increasing pressure on existing services.

The review found that mental distress has increased across age groups since the 1990s, with particularly concerning trends among young people. The proportion of people aged 16 to 64 experiencing a common mental disorder rose from 15.5% in 1993 to 22.6% in 2024. Among those aged 16 to 24, the proportion increased from approximately one in six to one in four.

The report also highlighted delays in assessments for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism. More than 560,000 people in England were waiting for an ADHD assessment at the end of 2025, while approximately 254,000 were awaiting an autism assessment. Such delays can leave people without appropriate guidance or support while their difficulties continue.

One of the review’s central recommendations is to introduce a needs-led system in which access to support is determined primarily by a person’s difficulties and circumstances, rather than making a formal diagnosis the only route to care. The report advocates earlier intervention, better coordination between mental health and neurodevelopmental services, and stronger oversight of private diagnostic providers.

The review also cautions that the growing number of diagnoses requires careful assessment. It raises concerns about inconsistent assessment practices and the possibility of misdiagnosis or overdiagnosis, while recognising that many people genuinely need help.

The UK government has indicated that the findings will inform its forthcoming mental health strategy. The proposed changes aim to improve access to early support while ensuring that specialist services remain available to people with more complex or severe conditions.

08-10-2026