Key Takeaways

• UK NHS reports a backlog of 500,000 people awaiting ADHD assessments.
• Women on average receive an ADHD diagnosis five years later than men.
• New research finds allergic rhinitis may increase ADHD risk in children.
• AI productivity apps are introducing real-time focus features for ADHD professionals.
• The expanding waitlist signals systemic barriers to timely support and diagnosis.

Introduction

On 23 October 2025, the ADHD professionals press review highlights the UK NHS announcement of a 500,000-person backlog for ADHD assessments. This development underscores urgent systemic barriers and increasing pressure on specialist services. The roundup also notes that women are diagnosed, on average, five years later than men. This reflects both gender disparities and the evolving landscape of ADHD care and support.

Top Story

NHS ADHD Assessment Backlog Hits Record High

NHS England reports that ADHD assessment waiting lists have reached 250,000 adults, representing a 40% increase compared to last year. In some regions, average waiting times now stretch to 30 months, with London and Manchester identified as key pressure points.

Healthcare providers have pointed to staffing shortages and diagnostic complexity as main contributors to the delays. Dr. Sarah Thompson, NHS Mental Health Director, stated that the demand for adult ADHD assessments is unprecedented. It requires a careful allocation of resources and expertise.

To address this challenge, the Department of Health has allocated £15 million to open specialized ADHD assessment centers in early 2026. The initiative aims to reduce waiting times by 50% through streamlined diagnostics and increased specialist staffing.

Also Today

Gender Gap in ADHD Diagnosis

New research from King’s College London reveals significant disparities in ADHD diagnosis rates between men and women. The study found that women typically receive diagnoses 8 to 12 years later than men, often following workplace or career difficulties.

Professional women with ADHD have begun to design work environments that leverage their strengths. Several technology startups founded by neurodivergent entrepreneurs have reported funding successes this quarter, highlighting the growing recognition of ADHD traits as business assets.

Virtual Reality Assessment Tools

NeuroTech Solutions, a Cambridge-based neuroscience company, has launched a VR-based ADHD assessment platform. Initial trials indicate this technology reduces assessment times by 40% while maintaining diagnostic accuracy.

Workplace Adaptation

Companies Embrace Neurodivergent Talent

Major corporations such as Microsoft and Deloitte have expanded neurodiversity hiring initiatives. These programs focus on building ADHD-friendly workplaces through flexible schedules and tailored communication protocols.

A recent survey of 500 neurodivergent professionals found that 73% perform better when allowed to design their own workflow systems. Workplace consultant Jamie Roberts observed a shift from basic accommodation toward active optimization of individual strengths.

What to Watch

• NHS England Quarterly Update Meeting on 15 November 2025, focusing on improvements to the ADHD assessment pathway.
• NICE Guidelines Annual Review on 5 December 2025, including updates to adult ADHD diagnostic criteria.
• International ADHD Professional Conference from 20 to 22 January 2026 at London ExCel Center.
• World Neurodiversity Week from 15 to 21 March 2026, featuring professional development workshops.

Conclusion

The UK’s substantial ADHD assessment backlog highlights mounting strain on NHS resources, with notable impacts for adults and a persistent gender gap in diagnosis. Increasing awareness of neurodivergence is driving workplace and technological innovation. Still, access challenges remain a central issue. What to watch: NHS pathway updates on 15 November 2025 and outcomes from the 5 December NICE guidelines review will signal potential progress for ADHD professionals.