28 October
And why the undiagnosed gap really matters
As I continue learning about the ADHD space, one thing has really stood out: how many people may be living with ADHD without even knowing it.
Estimates from ADHD UK and NICE suggest around 5% of children and 3–4% of adults in the UK have ADHD — that’s roughly 2.6 million people. Yet only a small proportion have a formal diagnosis.
Behind those numbers are people navigating work, study, and relationships without fully understanding why certain things feel harder than they should.
💬 Why I’m Writing
In my recruitment work, I speak daily with GPs and clinicians passionate about mental health. Many tell me ADHD is one of the fastest-growing areas – and one of the hardest to resource.
I also have close friends with ADHD, and I’ve seen first-hand the difference diagnosis and the right support can make.
⚖️ The Challenge
The issue isn’t just rising demand – it’s capacity.
Waiting lists are long. Access varies by region. And while private clinics help meet need, not everyone can afford that route.
Clinicians are under pressure, services are stretched, and the gap between who needs support and who receives it keeps growing.
🤔 A Question for You
For those leading or working in ADHD services:
Do you see the undiagnosed-to-diagnosed gap as one of the biggest challenges right now?
I’d love to hear your perspective – what’s driving the gap, and what’s helping to close it?
Read part 3 here
Looking at ADHD: When the Queue Grows Longer
https://www.menloparkrecruitment.com/looking-at-adhd-when-the-queue-grows-longer/
